LOS ANGELES -- Theatre of Hope for Abused Women will present the Mar. 28 local premiere of A Woman and Her Words: The Story of Tahirih, a drama about the life of the 19th-century Persian woman who was instrumental in the creation of the Baha'i Faith.

Written and performed by actress/singer Muhtadia Rice, the gala evening co-stars Parke McAlister and features music from a variety of international composers. The play incorporates some of Tahirih's original poetry in English translation.

Tahirih, a pioneer of women's rights in 19th-century Persia, was a theological scholar and poet who was martyered at age 36 in the year 1852.

A Woman and Her Words is presented by the Baha'i Women's Association of Los Angeles in honor of National Women's Month. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit Theatre of Hope for Abused Women, House of Ruth, Haven House and Sojourn Services for Battered Women and Their Children.

The evening's events will include a presentation of the Tahirih Award for Service, given to individuals recognized for their work in advancing the status of women. The honorees include actress Joan Van Ark, Dr. Neal Beer, a producer/writer for the TV series "ER," and California State Senator Diane Watson. A reception at 7 PM will be followed by an awards presentation and show at 8 PM at the L.A. Baha'i Center Auditorium, 5755 Rodeo Rd. For tickets, $22 (which is tax-deductible), call (818) 766- 9702.

-- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent