Laugh-out-loud funny, Primary Stages' "The Tribute Artist" is an update on the classic drawing room comedy featuring a talented ensemble cast. Written by and starring Charles Busch and directed by Carl Andress, the play follows Jimmy (Busch), a man in woman's clothes who repeatedly reminds us that he is a professional “Tribute Artist” impersonator, not a common cross-dresser.

But impersonators are no longer in demand in Vegas the way they used to be, and back in New York, Jimmy finds himself on hard times along with best lesbian friend and real estate wash-out Rita, played by Julie Halston. The chemistry between these two characters, Jimmy's broad farcical drag queen and Rita with her intense and caustic humor, creates the core of the show; both actors are excellent.

The friends are staying at the plush townhouse home of elderly Adriana, played brilliantly by veteran actress Cynthia Harris in an all too short role. When Adriana passes on, the two connive to sell the townhouse and abscond with the millions it nets. Alas, long lost relatives (played by Mary Bacon and Keira Keeley), and an old beau of Adriana's (played by Jonathan Walker) appear to interfere with their plans.

Funny, wacky, and frequently bringing the entire house to the floor with laughter, "The Tribute Artist" is a great evening out. Though it runs a bit long at about 2 hours (plus a 15 minute intermission) and some of the schtick is repetitive, it is smart, heartfelt and, through all it's craziness, very human.

Kudos must also go to all the talent behind the scenes, including producing-partner Jamie DeRoy, who many of us know from her many successful years in the NYC cabaret scene, and the wonderful job of set and lighting design by Anna Louizos and Kirk Bookman, respectively.