The young son of a Christian count has fallen in love with a household maid, a dark-skinned beauty who turns out to be a Muslim princess, in the war-torn year of 1224. Despite the backdrop of prejudice, hatred and violence, "Chasing Nicolette," an original musical presented by the Village Theatre, manages to be light-hearted, comical and enchanting.

With swash-buckling bravado, the young count Aucassin faces off against more experienced foes, and his angry father, to defend his love for Nicolette. The girl has been whisked away to a convent, and both Aucassin and her original betrothed, Nemur, hunt for her across dangerous lands.

The charm of "Chasing Nicolette" is largely due to the inventive dialogue, which is cleverly written in iambic pentameter throughout the entire show, and the musical score that ranges from bawdy to sweetly romantic to downright hilarious.

Each cast member gives a strong and engaging performance, with strong voices supporting the vivid characters. But it's difficult for anyone onstage to compete with the manic energy and pitch-perfect comedic skills of Nick DeSantis as the jester Valere.

Valere is quite simply a scene-stealing character, whether he's advising young Aucassin to "Lie" about his love, or begging for mercy while chained up in the dungeon. After he's "tortured," he actually becomes even funnier.

Matthew John Kasergis is earnest and faithful as the love-struck Aucassin, and Tanesha Ross makes a beautiful Nicolette, whether dressed as a serving girl or a princess.

Scott Fyfe's beautiful, innovative set design adds to the show's impact by simply being perfect. The scene changes are as fluid as a dance, and a single set piece manages to convey an entire world of possibilities.

"Chasing Nicolette," based on the French romance "Aucassin and Nicolette," is making its West Coast premiere with the Village Theatre production. Composer David Friedman and lyricist Peter Kellogg collaborated on last year's hit production, "Stunt Girl," which also premiered at the Village Theatre.

The musical comedy runs through November 22 at the Everett Performing Arts Center, 2710 Wetmore Avenue. Wednesday through Saturday evening shows are at 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday matinees start at 2 p.m., and Sunday evening curtain is at 7 p.m. Ticket prices range from $17 to $52.

For information or tickets, phone (425) 257-8600 or visit www.villagetheatre.org.

Photo: Matthew Kacergis (Aucassin) is counseled to "Lie" by the scene-stealing Nick DeSantis (Valere)._Photo by John Pai.