Barry Smith's one-man, multi-media show, "American Squatter," is his humorous autobio that delves into "self-absorption critical mass" -- and some glimmers of self-discovery. These kinds of shows can be either wonderously engaging or painfully self-indulgent. The show I saw Friday fell in between those two points. It wasn't gut-busting hilarious, but it was entertaining and sparked its share of laughs.

Smith -- a polished performer from Aspen, CO -- was a young Mississippi teen in the early 1980s when he goes to Southern California to live with dad, who's a serious freak for order and cleaning. But Smith has no use for such things. He revels in skateboarding (which he stinks at) and punk rock music. By his 20s, he's off to London, where life isn't exactly royal ... more like Amy Winehouse squalor ... but without her scads of cash.

The monologue is enhanced by Smith's use of family photos, audio tapes and family videos. And by his mathematical equations that show his descent into rebellious, anti-social behavior. But it's done with levity. Example: it's a hoot that he makes bongs as Christmas gifts in his college ceramic class. His description of a bad LSD trip and blowflies is a high point (no pun intended). And, yes, there's a reason the show's title is about squatting.

Comedy that springs from observing others is hard. Comedy that comes from looking at yourself is even harder. Smith tells his tale in a straightforward, amiable but adroit way. He's a likable and talented storyteller.

Playing: 2:30 p.m. Saturday (March 1), 7 p.m. Sunday (March 2), 10 p.m. March 7, and 7 p.m. March 8. At Starline, 831 E. Fern Ave. Cost: $7. Rating: R