Subtitled “a post electric play,” Anne Washburn’s black comedy is both bizarre and thought provoking.

Set in the very near future following an apocalyptic nuclear disaster, it opens with seven characters sitting around a campfire retelling a “Simpsons” episode.

Act II finds the same characters seven years later, formed into a traveling troupe of actors performing the episode (“Cape Feare”) with added commercials, which has changed a bit over the years.

Act III occurs 75 years later, with actors having turned the episode, and the movie, “Cape Fear” from which it was parodied, into a musical extravaganza.

Those familiar with the Simpsons, and especially that particular episode, will certainly have an advantage over those of us who have not followed the pop culture phenomena. While I was completely lost at times, I did marvel in the cleverness and subtleties of the dialogue and appreciated the hard work and energy of the ensemble cast.

Director Brien Lang changes the way the audience looks at the action, starting in the round, with the audience joining the actors around the campfire. Acts II and III have the stadium-style seats moved to enjoy the action from different perspectives.

The play is exhausting for both actors and audience, as recollections of the past change, which I guess is what the author is trying to portray.

You will either love or be lost by this play, depending on your age, your familiarity with the Simpsons, and your perspective on life.

While I have great admiration for the actors and all involved with the creative sets, lighting, music direction and costumes, I must admit that I found it a bit overwhelming.

Note: On press night, Artistic Director Josh Short received a call from one of the actors (Daraja Hinds) that she had an accident and was unable to perform. In only a few short hours, the cast regrouped with two of the actors and the director playing her role “on Book” (with the script in hand).

In the true tradition of the theatre, the show must go on, and the ensemble cast handled it brilliantly and effectively. Bravo to Diego Guevara, Jeff Hodge, Sarah Leach, Rae Mancini, Jennifer Mishley, Phoenyx Williams and Brien Lange for their professionalism.

“Mr. Burns” is at Wilbury Theatre, 393 Broad St. in Providence through April 1. Call 400-7100 for tickets.