‘Elegies for Angels’ Earnest at Attic

Title notwithstanding, the earnest and sometimes poignant “Elegies for Angels, Punks and Raging Queens” at Hollywood’s Attic Theatre pays tribute to more than just fringe populations affected by the AIDS epidemic.

Inspired by the Names Project AIDS Memorial Quilt, Bill Russell’s serious-minded musical cycles through 30 verse monologues celebrating the struggles of people from all walks of life who fought losing battles with HIV infection.

What could easily become a sprawling, unruly ensemble maintains an admirably uniform level of quality and focus under James Carey’s direction. But the piece is frequently hampered by stilted verse despite the best naturalistic efforts of the performers. One character recalls wishing to be “young and firm / But filling out like some pachyderm.” Seriously.

A quartet of capable singers liven the musical interludes composed by Janet Hood, which break up the succession of personal histories with lyrical pop numbers that could fit neatly into an “Up With People” concert. For all the admirable intentions behind “Elegies,” sentimental gush blunts much of its impact.

* “Elegies for Angels, Punks and Raging Queens,” Attic Theatre, 6562 1/2 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood. Thursdays--Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 2:30 p.m. Ends June 17. $15-$18. (213) 469-3786. Running time: 1 hour, 45 minutes.