There’s nothing like a communist spy to ruin your day. Lionel and Penelope Toop, a strict British vicar and his free-spirited American wife, know this fact only too well when a spy inadvertently arrives in their living room.

Back Alley Productions invites you to the classic stage comedy “See How They Run.” The show will be performed at the Mars Theatre, at 117 N. Chattanooga St. in downtown LaFayette. Performances are March 21, 22, 28 and 29 at 7:30 p.m.

The theater is seeking to revitalize the city with arts-based programs. This is the first major production at the theater.

“The play is set right after World War II when nations were very distrusting of each other,” director Kaylee Smith said, “but it takes the clash of different cultures – American, British, Russian – and pokes fun at how often we misunderstand each other. It’s one of the funniest plays I’ve seen and directed and something I think everyone will enjoy. Even though it’s set in 1949, the cast’s clever wit and honest satire stays relevant and will have people on the floor laughing.”

After Penelope Toop reconnects with an old friend Clive, an American soldier and former actor stationed near the vicarage, thtwo decide it’s worth the risk for Clive to dodge army regulations to go see the production of Noel Coward’s "Private Lives,” a play the two were in together years ago.

Clive changes from his uniform into one of Lionel's unused clerical suits while Lionel is away. One regrettable accident later and insanity ensues filled with mistaken identities and confusion on who is who.

The cast comes from Walker County, Ringgold, Chattanooga, Hixson, Dalton and Tunnel Hill.

“We’re really excited about this show,” Smith said. “Live theater is growing in the LaFayette community and we’re excited to offer people something out of the ordinary. If you’re looking for a night of live comedy, it’s just down the road. We invite the entire Walker County community and its neighbors out to the show. It’s one of our best.”

Tickets are $8 per person and can be purchased at the door. For more information, call (706) 621-2870. “See How They Run” is written by Phillip King and presented through special arrangement with Samuel French Inc.