Take a clever musical spoof, add some spectacular dancing, toss in a good dollop of irreverent humor and you've got "Altar Boyz," the crowd-pleasing off-Broadway musical comedy that's been playing to happy houses in New York for the past two years. The show's coming to The Colonial Theatre for a limited engagement October 31 - November 5, and tickets are on sale now.

Having received the coveted Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Off-Broadway Musical, the show spoofs groups like NSync, 98 Degrees and New Kids On The Block by presenting a wholesome, pop Catholic Boy Band -- The Altar Boyz -- in concert.

The 90 minute production that results is bright and clever and funny as Matthew, Mark, Luke and Juan (plus their Jewish friend Abraham) present a great mix of sharp songs "convincing enough to be played on MTV."

With music and lyrics by Gary Adler and Michael Patrick Walker, a book by Kevin Del Aguila (based on a concept by Marc Kessler and Ken Davenport), choreography by Christopher Gattelli, and direction by Stafford Arima, the show has become something of a cult favorite in New York.

The famous faces who have flocked to see the show (some more than once) include: Rosie O'Donnell, David Hyde Pierce, Kathy Bates, Liza Minnelli, Stephen Sondheim, Kevin Bacon, Joan Rivers, Tommy Tune, Twyla Tharp, Jai Rodriquez, Mario Cantone, Stephen Schwartz, Anthony Rapp and others.

For tickets and information, stop by the box office at either The Colonial Theatre at 106 Boylston Street or The Opera House at 539 Washington Street. You may also call 617-931-2787 or visit www.BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com.

-- OnStage Boston

09/12/06