It was a power play with a bright outcome.

About 60 fourth and fifth graders at Payne STEAM Academy in Inglewood were recently taught some important lessons on ways they and their families can stay safe around electricity during a live theatre performance of “Agents of Safety” sponsored by Edison International.

Judging from the laughter and applause, the show’s messages were not lost on the students.

“I learned to not put water near electricity,” said Violet, 9.

Added Isabella, a fourth grader: “I liked how they taught us that you should stay away from electric cords and lines that have fallen because they might not be safe.”

“I learned something new, that there are three sources to making electricity — hydro power, wind power and solar power,” said Dayne, 9, sounding like a future environmental engineer.

The live educational theatre production, staged by The National Theatre for Children, uses a colorful cast of characters that actively engage students by teaching them about electrical safety through the arts and entertainment.

Assorted characters, costume changes, animated voices and comical dialogue during the show kept the students amused. “I liked that they were funny,” said Christian, 10.

Edison International is making the production available to 40 elementary schools and Boys & Girls Clubs as part of its public safety outreach efforts. More than 19,000 students from across Southern California Edison’s service area are scheduled to see the performances through Oct. 4.

“Agents of Safety is a creative teaching tool that makes learning fun and entertaining,” said Lisa Woon, SCE principal manager, Corporate Philanthropy. “We want to educate children so they know more about electricity and how they and their families can stay safe around it.”

During the performances, students are taught how electricity is made, uses for electricity, how to identify dangerous electrical situations and ways to stay safe around electricity.

Messages included the importance of anchored metallic balloons and to never release them into the air which can cause power outages, to steer clear and never touch a downed power line and to never fly a kite or attempt to retrieve a kite near a power line.

And with youngsters having access to many electrical devices, including smartphones, tablets, hand-held video game consoles and chargers, it’s important that they be aware of their potential dangers, said Francesca Palermo, an actor in the production.

“Smartphones, tablets and chargers — no, it’s not OK for them to get wet,” she said. “They need to learn it’s not safe.” 

Another no-no. “Don’t put a lot of plugs in one outlet,” cautioned Valerie, 10.