Tony Kushner wasn't the only playwright writing what would be a timely theatre work. Betty Shamieh's play Chocolate in Heat: Growing Up Arab in America was actually produced last August at the New York International Fringe Festival. Now, the piece will return to the stage at Theatre for the New City, Feb. 21-March 10.

The show written and performed by Palestinian-American Shamieh comprises five monologues with music and dance. The show about love, sex, privilege and the struggle of identifying yourself between two cultures now takes on new meaning in light of recent events.

The production played to sold-out crowds at the 2001 FringeNYC under the direction of Damen Amir Scranton. Also featured in the production is Piter Fattouche. The show will tour various West Coast theaters following its Off-Off-Broadway run.

For tickets to Chocolate in Heat at Theater for the New City, 155 First Ave., call (212) 254-1109.

— by Ernio Hernandez