FARMINGTON – It may sound like a terrible idea, but the Mt. Blue Curtain Raisers Improv Comedy Troupe wants western Maine audiences to help some people out and laugh about it. Sort of.

On Nov. 20-21, at 7:30 p.m. in the Mt. Blue High School Auditorium, the improv comics will combine forces with MBHS’ INTERACT service organization to benefit area food pantries. Bring a canned good and receive a dollar off admission to the Curtain Raisers’ latest show, “(For Your Safety) Push Not Pull,” an evening of non-perishable comedic goodness. The goal is 200 cans in two nights and The Curtain Raisers believe it can happen with the help of the audience, including the Curtain Raisers faithful and the as-of-yet uninitiated.

The Curtain Raisers perform a unique blend of short and long-form improvisational comedy that relies on audience participation to make the magic happen. Games such as those featured on “Whose Line Is It, Anyway?” are combined with longer stories made up through audience suggestions. Some people have described it as “Mad Libs” on legally-prescribed steroids. Audience members should be rest-assured that it is OK to sit back and enjoy the show. But it is so much more fun to get involved.

Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $3; receive a dollar off for every can of food donated. For more information, contact Curtain Raisers Artistic Director, Dan Ryder, at 778-3561 or dryder@msad9.org.