Review: ‘Beside Myself’ lacks the force for farce at Laguna Playhouse

Here’s the sales pitch: “minimally invasive brain surgery!” What could go wrong?

Plenty, as Paul Slade Smith’s new comedy misfire “Beside Myself” at Laguna Playhouse labors to show us.

Unfortunately, this trying-to-be farce, about a tempting cure-all to stave off personality anxiety disorders, could have used some further surgery itself in the writing room.

Smith’s earlier outing in Laguna two seasons ago was his terrific ensemble farce “The Angel Next Door.” It memorably featured the author’s talented actress/wife Erin Noel Grennan’s turn as a hilarious dour maid.

In addition to Grennan’s return, this new play is steered by Laguna’s outgoing artistic director David Ellenstein, who also directed “Angel.”

From left, Alanna J. Smith, Matthew Henerson, Jacquelyn Ritz and Erin Noel Grenna