It’s opening night of Peter Austin’s new play as he anxiously waits to see if his show is a hit. He shares the big night with his best friend, a television star; his fledgling producer; his erratic leading lady; his wunderkind director; an infamous drama critic; and a fresh-off-the-bus coat check attendant on his first night in Manhattan. Starring Nathan Lane (through January 4), Martin Short (beginning January 7), Matthew Broderick, F. Murray Abraham, Stockard Channing, Rupert Grint, Megan Mullally and Micah Stock.

It’s alternately raucous, ridiculous and tender—and proves that sometimes the biggest laughs happen offstage.