Allie (adorable Dara Hartman) is a lonely, space-obsessed kid who dreams of flying to the stars. Her fantasy comes true when an alien sends a mysterious message to the President (Chris Kind) requesting Allie's presence. On her journey she makes new friends and learns how to work as a team.

I know: All kids have had those lessons pounded into them since they were in the womb. But Allie's far-out details (dancing is what powers her bed-turned-ship; her first mate is a talking dog) really seem like they were spawned by a child's imagination, and broad humor (the Pres is a master bumbler, think Gerald Ford meets George W.) cracks kids up. (He was certainly my five-year-old's favorite part!) Parents should also enjoy the references to Sputnik (a post-show history lesson may be in order).

Drew Fornarola's pop-theater songs are pleasant, although the canned accompaniment sounds a bit cheap. (It's a problem with all Vital shows, sadly. An economic decision). But the informality of Vital's productions make them perfect for first-time or just plain young theatergoers.

The ticket prices are a not-outrageous $25 and the actors know how to deal with kids calling out. But chances are that won't happen. Like the other children in the audience, my daughter and her friend sat rapt throughout the hour-long tuner.

Stick around afterward to meet and take photos with the cast, and get their autographs. Sure beats waiting around to get Spider-Man's signature.

Awesome Allie First Kid Astronaut plays through April 26 at the Vital Children's Theater, 2162 Broadway at 76th St 4th fl. $25.