Arizona theatregoers can get a double-dose of Dietz this month, when the world premiere of Rocket Man runs in repertory with Still Life With Iris. Though two different theatre companies are taking part in the double-dip, the plays will happen on the same stages (in Tucson and then Phoenix). In Rocket Man, a middle-aged fellow rummages through his attic and decides to change his life for awhile. As the press release puts it, "He settles into his recliner, pushes a button...and blasts off on an amazing journey to a parallel universe."

Arizona Theatre Company artistic director David Ira Goldstein, who is staging Rocket Man, says of the show, "What happens to the roads not taken and the lives we have chosen not to lead? Rocket Man is an ingenious, smart challenge to grab life with both hands while we have the chance."

The third Dietz play to premiere at ATC (Private Eyes, Dracula), Rocket Man stars Kurt Rhoads, alongside Carol Roscoe, Pamela Stewart, Michael Winters and Lauren Tewes (of TV's "Love Boat" fame).

Designing Rocket Man are Scott Welden (set), Carolyn Keim (costumes), Rick Paulsen (lighting) and Brian Jerome Peterson (sound). The show runs at ATC in Tucson March 6-25 (previews began Feb. 28), and at ATC in Phoenix April 3-25.

Meanwhile, Still Life With Iris is produced by Childsplay, "a professional theatre for families and children." Discounts are available for theatregoers who want to catch both plays.

For information on Rocket Man and Still Life With Iris call (520) 622-2823.

-- By David Lefkowitz