So, no monkeying around, “Welcome to the Monkey House” was surprisingly good. Phillip Ball is to be commended for his role as the top banana in this show that had the audience going ape.

I’m not all that wild about the writings of Kurt Vonnegut and was never into science fiction, but the cast and crew at the Butler Little Theatre did a great job with this production, which is a compilation of several of his works made into a play about a play.

Two of the four short stories were science fiction and provided good food for thought.

A healthy opening night attendance welcomed the show. The production was balanced with parts that prompted a laugh and other parts that were somber and at times morose.

The only thing better than seeing new faces on stage is when those faces can actually act, which makes it truly a delightful experience.

The cast was comprised of a blend of seasoned actors and some newer to the craft and some simply new to the BLT stage.

Portraying Newt, a narrator of sorts, was the well- composed Dan McCarty. His pleasant voice and demeanor moved the story along and kept the audience in the loop.

The first vignette featured veterans Greg Crawford and Amy Cannard in a futuristic spin with an equality bent to it. It was somewhat silly in parts until it became hauntingly plausible.

The duo did a commendable job in one of the more serious of the four acts.

The second act, “Who am I this time,” opened with Sue Switzer temporarily handing over the reins of her theater to Newt as director during her absence. The act was led by newcomers David Colin Lynch and Danielle Jacobson as two lonely people auditioning for a show.

The pair had amazing chemistry. As the ball got rolling they were quite believable in their respective roles. Both were equally delightful in their approach and their delivery was enjoyable as they evolved throughout the brief scene.

The third act was another of a science fiction nature called “The Euphio Question,” and it explored the concept of inner peace and happiness.

Dennis Whalen, newcomer Steve Fogle and Lynch were showcased in this spot about trying to capitalize or create happiness. The trio was expertly supported by team Drohan, Samantha and Olivia who portrayed wife and daughter to Whalen and Jacobson who played wife to Lynch.

Their euphoric states were indeed entertaining and garnered their share of giggles from the audience.

Shannon Donovan and Dennis Whalen led the final charge with “The Kid Nobody Could Handle,” a glimpse into reaching deep into the hurting and bringing forth life. Whalen’s performance was powerful with emotions running the gamut, and Donovan was compelling as the troubled teen.

Olivia Cox debuted in the production as Diana Moon Glampers and played several cast/ensemble roles during the production.

The thought-provoking show had the audience chattering at intermission and several checking their programs at the end to see if the finale was really the finale or if there was another scene coming.

It was truly a unique evening of theater.