The world premiere of John Howell's Raven's Gift opens at the Horse Cave Theatre as part of its Kentucky Voices program this weekend. The program's 13th world premiere runs July 11-Aug. 3 .

Gift, workshopped last year at Voices, tells the story of Brian, a physician going through the pains of a malpractice suit, and his wife Alana, who has never quite recovered from the death of their son. Both receive a gift which may or may not hold the key enabling them to unlock the doors between them.

Howell's plays have been produced at the Kentucky Playwright's Theatre and the Floyd County Theatre. They include Safe Ground, The Kringle Account, and The Agony of Thatch. Howell is currently making his living as a psychologist in Louisville.

Since 1981, Horse Cave has mounted 12 productions by Kentucky writers. The theatre's Kentucky Voices program is the only one of its kind to be involved with the development of original Kentucky plays and playwrights. A reception in honor of past Kentucky Voices playwrights will begin the opening night's festivities July 11 at 7 PM. Raven's Gift runs July 11-Aug. 3. For tickets call (502) 786-2177, (800) 342-2177 or refer to Horse Cave Theatre .

--By Sean McGrath