Bluegrass Musical Comedy Extends Its Run

"Paradise: A Divine Bluegrass Musical Comedy," a lowbrow satire set in a small coal mining town, is extending its run at Ruskin Group Theatre in Santa Monica.

Under the direction of Dan Bonnell, who was a regular participant in Skirball-Kenis Theatre Projects programs, the show runs Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons through May 4.

The L.A. Weekly called it a "charming" and "ever-so-silly" play that "trafficks in stereotypes" (in a good, entertaining way). It also features some "tender ballads" and live music from the country band Old #7.

It stars voiceover artist Jonathan Root as preacher John Cyrus and Nina Brissey as his ex-stripper sidekick, "Chastity."

The musical runs 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, and is on hiatus from March 31 to April 12 and April 28. Tickets are $25 ($20 for students, seniors, and guild members) and can be purchased in advance by calling (310) 397-3244.

Ruskin Group Theatre is at 3000 Airport Ave.