STAGE REVIEWS : FRINGE FESTIVAL : ‘OFF THE BUS’

When a comedy/improv troupe’s sketches get more laughs from the offstage members of the group than from the audience, that troupe is in trouble. This describes “Off the Bus,” at the Eagle on Wednesday.

There were a few clever improvisations: a dishwashing competition, a Madison Avenue brainstorming session on how to promote a “spinach-maker,” the use of a large Godzilla doll. But long before these, the momentum was destroyed by a succession of deadly moments: an impromptu “novel” without a shred of wit, the world’s worst Kirk Douglas impersonation, a pointless lip-synched trio, a dreadful puppet act.

Given the competition in this genre in Los Angeles, these people should re-board the bus and seek further training before reopening to the public.

Performances are at 182 N. Robertson Blvd ., Beverly Hills, Wednesdays at 8 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at midnight, through Sept. 26. Tickets: $5-$6; (213) 466-1767.