Kid-friendly improv with a little edge? That's 'Hogwash'

The performance will feature live music, makeshift props and a happy ending. Beyond that, I can't tell you much about the plot or characters, since the actors in "Hogwash: An Improvised Tall Tale for Small Children" promise to present a story that's "never been told before and will never be told again."

On a recent afternoon, actors solicited help from the young audience for everything from characters' names (Boo and Ali-moo) to costume suggestions. As the group of six actors made up a storyline — and impromptu songs, even — kids were called up on stage to help pull an imaginary rope and demonstrate mud rolling (well, you had to be there). A live band supplies an as-you-go soundtrack.

If kids weren't on stage, the actors brought the action down to the seats: During two 25-minute tales, audience members got squirted with water and Silly String. Want to warn the good guys about the villain's plot? Just shout it out. "You'd be a liar," one little girl admonished a dastardly pig planning to thwart another.

Even with wholesome action (a dragon "slayer" ended up putting the beast to sleep; the conniving pig got his comeuppance and made friends with his rival), the show maintains a welcome "What will they do next?" edge. The improv aspect keeps parents interested, though don't expect the same laughs as, say, TheatreSports.

Housed at the funky Historic University Theater, the production is geared to ages 4 to 8. Come a few minutes early to partake of free face painting.

Stephanie Dunnewind: sdunnewind@seattletimes.com