The True Confessions of a Dogeater, Jonathan Lopez's seriocomic look at life and U.S. immigration through the eyes of a young Filipino actor, will have its world premiere Aug. 14-28 at the John Houseman Studio Theatre, Too, 450 W. 42nd Street in Manhattan.

The semi-autobiographical one-man show, written by and featuring Lopez, explores the experience of a Filipino actor coming to America with dreams of being a movie star. Among characters: John's mother, who worships Imelda Marcos; his father, who wants to toughen his son for life abroad, spelling the end of a family pet; and his brother, who is fascinated by Filipino action star Fernando Poe Jr.

Norman Katz produces the staging, directed by Bill Primavera. Official opening is Aug. 18.

Lopez was born in Manila, Phillipines. He has appeared in Off-Off-Broadway and regional productions. He has an MFA in acting from Brooklyn College, where he studied with F. Murray Abraham.

Primavera is artistic director of St. John's University, NY Dinner Theatre, Long Island Theatre Sports and Mystery Cafe. Designers are Chris Noke (scenic and lighting) and Diane Especioso (costume).

Tickets are $15 and can be reserved by calling (212) 946-1140.

-- By Kenneth Jones