Battochio's new comedy Thicker Than Water will have its world premiere at L.A.'s Theatre West on Jan. 29, 2000 and will run through Feb. 20. Stuart Berg is the director.

Thicker Than Water deals with the Corellis, an Italian-American family living on the outskirts of New York City. The clan has a construction business which has been prospering, partly due to municipal projects coming their way courtesy of their political connections. Then Gertrude, who is married to one of the Corelli brothers, announces that she wants to take control of the business herself. She also has her own political connections. Suddenly the rest of the family must decide what to do about her. Some of them want her strong-armed and kidnapped. Those with a dimmer view just want her whacked.

Marvin Kaplan ("Alice," "Top Cat") has the lead role of Dr. Flanken, the family physician. Others in the cast include Roger Cruz, Mary Garripoli, Jack Kutcher, Barbara Mallory, Constance Mellors, Susan Morganstern, Leonard Ross and Dave Scotti.

Berg won a Drama-Logue Award for his direction of Soljers at Theatre East. He teaches at American Academy of Dramatic Arts-West.

Theatre West is located at 3333 Cahuenga Blvd. W. For tickets and information call (888) 551-WEST or visit theatrewest.org -- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent