South Coast Rep's new version of John Guare's Bosoms and Neglect opens Jan. 26 at its Second Stage and continuing through Feb. 25. Directed by David Chambers, the cast includes Tim Choate, Cindy Katz and Lynn Milgrim.

The latter two actors have been seen at SCR before, Katz in The Misanthrope, The Cherry Orchard and Skylight (among others); Milgrim in The Countess, Pygmalion and Death of a Salesman. Choate is making his SCR debut; he has worked extensively in New York and regionally.

Chambers's design team is Darcy Scanlin (set), Shigeru Yaji (costumes), York Kennedy (lighting) and B.C. Keller (sound). Andy Tighe is stage manager.

Bosoms and Neglect received its West Coast premiere on the SCR Second Stage 20 years ago. In 1998, it received a popular revival as part of a John Guare season at the Signature Theatre Company in New York.

The three-character work examines the relationship between a psychiatrist and two of his patients who begin an affair that gives new meaning to the phrase "crazy in love."Guare, the author of numerous plays and winner of many awards, is presently writing a musical version of the 50s film classic "Sweet Smell of Success," with music by Marvin Hamlisch and lyrics by Craig Carnelia.

South Coast Repertory is located at 655 Town Center Drive. For tickets and information call (714) 708- 5555.

— By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent