Grade: A

“The Producers” is one of the funniest films ever made, and while Mel Brooks' musical stage version significantly alters the story and peppers the work with some ultimately forgettable songs, it never loses touch with its roots as a work of comic genius.

Director Ed Sayles, clearly a fan of the original, takes pains to play “The Producers” for all its comedic worth. Occasional flashes pay tribute to the film including, hilariously, the costuming for the Hitler auditions and the headgear in the “Springtime” number. Sayles is a superb director of comedy, particularly in his ability to manufacture the sort of physical imagery that leaves an audience rolling in the aisles. The budding romance between the timid Leo and the adventurous Ulla in “That Face” is masterfully staged.

In his casting, Sayles has struck gold as well, with the return of Geno Carr and Bethany Moore (who fell in love last season in “Thoroughly Modern Millie”) as Leo and Ulla, and with Ray Arrucci as the irrepressible Max Bialystock.

Carr does his usual flawless work here, sending Leo through paroxysms of anguish and insecurity as he ventures into the world of theater. Carr has the rare ability to play comedy as both the straight man and the joker, has an enormously appealing presence and a marvelous and expressive voice.

Moore is a wonderful singer and dancer and is never overmatched in the acting, exhibiting a boundless enthusiasm and constant exuberance. Her work in “Springtime” - and her costume - are worth the price of admission.

But it is Arrucci who drives the play with a powerhouse performance as the scheming Max. Rather than try to exorcise the ghost of Zero Mostel, he builds on it. There is enough new material in this version to allow Arrucci his own interpretation of Max, and his performance is both inventive and comfortably familiar.

Christopher Carr, Mark Ludden and Juan Torres-Falcon are excellent in support, as is local actress Pamela Anderegg as Hold Me-Touch Me.

The chorus is top notch, perfectly executing Lori Leshner#'s exacting, tap-heavy (never a problem for me) choreography. Music Director Corinne Aquilina has the cast in fine voice and the orchestra perfect.

Michael Hottois has designed terrific sets, and Robert Frame's lighting design is spot on. Travis Lope gets a special mention for his brilliant costuming, and Marty Kopulsky does fine work with the hair and makeup designs.

If you go

What: “The Producers”

When: Continues through Friday, Aug. 15; show times vary

Where: Merry-Go-Round Playhouse, Emerson Park, Owasco

Cost: $25 to $39

Info: Call 255-1785 or visit www.merry-go-round.com