Michael's #1 Fan, a new play about devotion, desire and deception in a small town, plays Nov. 8-19 at The Producers Club II in Manhattan. The New Cockpit Ensemble presents the world premiere of Frank J. Avella's tragic-comic play, about a man who slowly unearths shocking truths about his lineage and faces betrayals in his trusted inner circle.

The "Michael" of the title is 1970s actor Michael Sarrazin, whose fan is named Robert, a man looking to make sense of his life. Lily, Robert's close friend and almost-sister-in-law, is looking to help Robert and looking for a faithful fiancée. Robert's brother (Lily's fiancée) is looking to keep all family secrets hidden — and looking for new ways to be unfaithful. A town gossip, a local news reporter, an 80-year-old serial killer and others are part of the mix.

The company features Kristi Elan Caplinger, Michael P. Ciminera, Jami Coogan, Jessica Faller, Christian W. Macchio, Jeanine Tolve, Brian Townes and Greta Thyssen.

Designers are Phil Devine (set) and David Frost (sound).

Avella served as artistic director of the Cockpit Ensemble for the last seven years. His other plays include Unhinging, 3 Cains, Iris, Greener and The Oscar Pool.

Performances for Michael's #1 Fan are 8 PM Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 2, 8 PM Saturday and 3 PM Sunday. The Producers Club II is located at 616 Ninth Avenue, between West 43rd and 44th Streets.

Tickets are $20-$25. For ticket information, call (212) 769 8282 or visit the website at www.MichaelsNumberOneFan.com.

— By Kenneth Jones