The annual Unity Fest of plays began Dec. 6 at the Bank Street Theatre, marking the fourth year devoted to gay themes and to supporting gay playwrights. This year's festival, ending Dec. 30, has included 18 plays containing 45 characters and featuring 23 actors. The ensemble reflects the company's dedication to diversity, including Latin, Asian, African American, and Caucasian actors. One highlight of the festival appears to be Chay Yew's 3 brand-new plays that will be produced for the festival: Blow, White and The Faces of Ants. Yew is well known for plays such as Porcelain and A Language of Their Own. Other playwrights involved in the festival include notables Linda Eisenstein, Gary Garrison, Amy A. Kirk and David Pumo.

The plays were divided into three programs and were performed in rotating repertory. For tickets and information, visit their website at www.4thUnity.org or call (212) 358-3557.

— Steve Luber