Directed by Seattle Rep artistic director Sharon Ott, the play began performances April 24 for a run through May 15 in Washington company's Leo K. Theatre. The production is a co-premiere with The New Theatre in Coral Gables, Florida — where Anna in the Tropics also played its world premiere.

Cuban-born Cruz sets his new work in Spain where an artist reunites with his daughter after a long separation with her mother. An earthy Spanish woman, a handsome young Moroccan, and the spirit of Federico García Lorca also serve as characters in the new work. The play was developed from staged readings as part of Seattle Rep's Hot Type festival last year.

The cast of Beauty of the Father features Tom Ramirez as artist Emiliano, Onahoua Rodriguez as daughter Marina. Karmin Murcelo, Paul Nicholas and Jonathan Nicholas are also in the cast.

Playwright Cruz has penned the plays Two Sisters and a Piano, A Park in Our House, Night Train to Bolina, A Bicycle Country, Dancing on Her Knees, The Museum of Dreams and Anna in the Tropics.

The design team includes Etta Lilienthal (scenic), Deb Trout (costumes), Peter Maradudin (lighting) and Steve LeGrand (sound). Mame Hunt serves as the dramaturg. For tickets to Beauty of the Father at Seattle Rep, 155 Mercer Street in the Seattle Center, at (206) 443-2222 or visit the website www.seattlerep.org.