SOLANA BEACH, CA -- A.R. Gurney's canine comedy, Sylvia, which opened Feb. 28 at the North Coast Repertory Theatre for a seven-week run through Apr. 13, has extended a few more nights to Apr. 18.

Gurney's play, an Off-Broadway hit a few seasons back, deals with a dog (played by Tracey McNeil) who becomes the major bone of contention in a modern-day marriage.

Others in the cast include NCRT vets Vinny Ferrelli, Carmen BeauBeaux and John Steed. Directing Sylvia is Olive Blakistone.

In conjunction with Sylvia, NCRT is giving dog lovers an opportunity to show their pooches how much they care. For a $25 donation to NCRT, one may dedicate a performance of the play to one's favoite dog, an honor that will be announced from the stage. Posted on a display board in the lobby will be Fido's biography and photo in a "wall of fame." For more information, call (619) 481-1055.

Show times are Thu.-Sat. at 8 PM and Sun. at 2 and 7 PM. (Sun., Mar. 1 there is no 7 PM performance.) For tickets, $16-$18, call (619) 481-1055 or toll-free (888) 776-NCRT. Rush tickets, $10, are available 10 minutes prior to showtime, subject to availability. -- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent