The Happiness Lecture is conceived and performed by Irwin with an ensemble cast including local artists Nichole Canuso, Jennifer Childs, Melanie Cotton, Aaron Cromie, Lee Ann Etzold and Makoto Hirano as well as New York artists Ephrat "Bounce" Asherie and Cori Olinghouse.

In The Happiness Lecture Irwin "leads this versatile ensemble of eight actors and dancers on an adventure in the pursuit of happiness," according to PTC. "A unique and imaginative evening of delightful vignettes and physical comedy, this world premiere event is a wild theatrical ride that spoofs theatrical conventions while exploring the sheer joy of laughter."

"With many of our performances selling out and tickets to the remaining shows going quickly, the audience and critical response to The Happiness Lecture has been incredible. …In times of public cynicism and civic apathy, it is wonderful to offer people an opportunity to laugh and have a good time," stated Sara Garonzik, producing artistic director of PTC.

The piece was commissioned by the Philadelphia Theatre Company and made possible in part by a grant from the Philadelphia Theatre Initiative, a program of the Philadelphia Center for Arts and Heritage, funded by The Pew Charitable Trusts and administered by The University of the Arts.

For more information call (215) 985-0420 or visit philadelphiatheatrecompany.org. PTC plays at the Suzanne Roberts Theatre at Broad and Lombard Street.