"We are extremely pleased to be able to present our Geffen Playhouse productions at the charming Brentwood Theatre while our theatre is being dramatically improved," said producing director Gilbert Cates. Citing the audience as the top priority during the transition, Cates added "Brentwood Theatre has virtually the same relationship between the audience and the stage... so it made perfect sense in our search for a home away from home."

The move will begin with the final production of Geffen's 2003-04 season — a play yet to be announced — and continue through the entire 2004-05 season. Brentwood Theatre is located less than two miles west of the current Geffen Playhouse on the grounds of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

The $25 million capital campaign to renovate and expand the Geffen Playhouse will provide the existing space with a larger seating capacity, improved acoustics, an expanded lobby, greater handicap accessibility, upgraded artist dressing rooms and backstage areas, larger restrooms and a loading dock.

The construction of the new second Geffen stage will allow for new play development and also be used as a rehearsal space. The campaign will also create an endowment to secure the Geffen’s artistic and financial future. The new complex and renovations are expected to be complete for the 2005-06 season.

The Brentwood Theatre, which was built in 1944, is currently undergoing a renovation of its own — which will be completed in time for the Geffen Playhouse’s arrival. The space will be used for a variety of events including plays, small musicals, film screenings, concerts, dance and children’s theater once the Geffen returns to its Westwood location in 2005. The Geffen's upcoming season will include I Just Stopped By to See the Man, Sugar Plum Fairy, War Music and The Underpants.

Geffen Playhouse is located at 10886 Le Conte Avenue in Westwood. For tickets, call the Geffen box office at (310) 208-5454. For more information, visit the website at www.geffenplayhouse.com.