We like wacky behind-the-scenes stories. Among other things, the drama going on offstage (whether literally or figuratively) helps one appreciate all the hard work that goes into what people are supposed to see. And the backstory is often funnier than the official, on-purpose part of life. That’s the nature of Epic Proportions, a play that follows the experiences and point of view of a couple of hapless extras in a 1930s Biblical film spectacle that somehow also includes Cleopatra and some gladiators.
Larry Coen (screenwriter of Phone Booth) and David Crane (who often wrote for Friends) penned this 1986 comedy that’s become a favorite of regional and community theaters. A cast of eight portrays a cast of thousands at Fountain Hills Theater, 11445 North Saguaro Boulevard, through Sunday, October 20. Curtain time Friday, October 18, is 8 p.m. Order tickets, $15 to $20, at www.fhtaz.org or 480-837-9661.
Fridays, Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m. Starts: Oct. 4. Continues through Oct. 20, 2013