Playwright Michael Weller returned to the Hypothetical Theatre Company this autumn with Buying Time, a new drama about lawyers with a mission and the moneyed client who challenges the issues they represent, which will close Dec. 3. Performances began at the New 14th Street Y Nov. 1 with an opening Nov. 5. Amy Feinberg directs.

In the world of environmental law, the firm of Donne & Russo has just won a major case that shook the government. But the attorneys' troubles are just beginning as they attempt to balance their urges to do right with their needs to make money. Their newest case, for instance, pits a penniless, endangered bird against the wealthy timber industry. The process will destroy their star litigator Bennett Traube as he becomes obsessed with an idealistic and beautiful female lawyer who is serving as house counsel to their client.

Weller is best known for penning Moonchildren. His other works include Loose Ends, Fishing, Split, Spoils of War,Lake No Bottom and last season's Hypothetical production, The Heart of Art. Buying Time was written in 1995 and first produced at Seattle Repertory Theatre in 1996.

Lee Sellars (1998's Ghosts on Fire) stars as Bennett Traube. Also in the cast are Monique Fowler, Tibor Feldman, Chuck Montgomery, Irene McDonnell, Margot Jennifer Trimble, Mark Dold, Jennifer Gibbs, Patrick Boll, Evan Thompson, Andy Powers, David Ari, Antonio del Rosario and Jeff Kronson.

Tickets are $19-$15. The New 14th Street Y is located at 344 East 14th Street. For reservations, call (212) 206-1515. The Hypothetical Theatre Company is on the web at http://www.hypotheticaltheatre.org. -- By Christine Ehren