The Steven Dietz play, Rocket Man, splashes down to earth again at Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, closing Feb. 14 at the Stiemke Theater.

The production, directed by Andrew Traister, began previews Jan. 22 and opened Jan. 24.

Dietz's fantastical play, about a man who chucks his belongings and takes a journey into a parallel universe, had its world premiere by the Arizona Theatre Company in 1998 and was recently nominated for the American Theatre Critics New Play Award.

John Walcutt, making his Rep debut, plays the title's time-traveler, Donny. The cast also includes Ron Frazier, Carrie Hitchcock, Laura Gordon and Kirsten Potter.

Designers are Kent Dorsey (scenic and lighting), Christine Dougherty (costumes) and Barry G. Funderburg (sound). Dietz, author of Painting It Red, God's Country and Lonely Planet, is a Milwaukee favorite. His adaptation of the epic novel, Silence, was seen at the Rep in the 1995-96 season, and Private Eyes was staged there in 1997-98. The Rep will present the world premiere of his Force of Nature April 7-May 9, 1999.

Tickets are $17.50-$25. Milwaukee Rep is a three-theatre operation in downtown Milwaukee. For information, call (414) 224-9490.

-- By Kenneth Jones