The Hook & Ladder, a first play by John Lavachelli, will have its world premiere at the Hudson Mainstage Theatre on May 15. The play is set in a suburban town and looks at the lives of two men whose lives take an abrupt turn when each travels far from home on a separate journey. One is in search of a nervous breakdown (he thinks), the other is seeking a "brass ring of sorts." Upon their return, the mens' perspectives of themselves and their hometown have changed forever.

Heading the cast are Carmine Caridi and Peter Gregory. Caridi had a recurring role on "NYPD Blues" 1993-97. Gregory was recently seen in John Patrick Shanley's Four Dogs and a Bone at the Tamarind.

The ensemble also features Thor Edgell, Michael McCraine, Stephen Shellen, Bryan Clark, Jo Deodato Clark and Michael Ashe.

Erich Anderson, who was featured on "thirtysomething" and currently plays a recurring role on WB's "Felicity," directs.

The Hudson Mainstage is at 6539 Santa Monica Blvd. Call (323) 856-4000 for information. -- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent