ENTERTAINMENT: Jason Alexander revealed

  It was a challenge for the ad department to convey Jason Alexander’s new live venture — a parody of motivational speakers — in a few words. The tagline for “Donny Clay” ended up being “comedy, music, self-help and partial nudity.”

  Partial nudity?

 They were kidding. And they weren’t. A flesh-toned body stocking (Thank God for whoever invented those!) played a major role in the 75-minute showcase. It turned out to be a thin but agreeable vehicle that’s heavily dependent upon Alexander’s considerable charisma and his ability to sell it

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  The body stocking also sums up the tone. Those hoping for the sharp, character-based writing of “Seinfeld” might be disappointed that so much of “Donny” is lower-brow innuendo and wiener jokes.  (A couple of  "Seinfeld" catch-phrases made it in, but amazingly, "shrinkage" wasn't among them.)

  But who knows? That approach might work out better on the Strip anyway. The framework is solid and leaves room to grow. After Friday’s show, Alexander noted the Vegas opening at Planet Hollywood came after only about 10 dates of “Donny” as a ticketed attraction, versus its origins as corporate entertainment for captive (and non-paying) audiences.

  Alexander  told R-J columnist Norm Clarke and me that he turned down “The Producers” at Paris Las Vegas — after he and Martin Short co-starred in Los Angeles — because he didn’t want to see the Mel Brook musical cut to 90 minutes. That turned out to be a wise call given the disappointing results, though he and Short would have undoubtedly given the musical a stronger launch on the Strip.

  “Donny” could prove a more durable solo vehicle. Ticket-buyers will cast their votes through Sunday, and again when Alexander returns for a longer stretch, Feb. 25 through March 14. A detailed review will run in the Neon section on Feb. 26.