Judd Hirsch returns to a familiar role in the Paper Mill Playhouse production of Yasmina Reza’s Art, which will run Jan. 3-Feb. 4 at New Jersey’s State Theatre. But Hirsch takes the stage in an expanded capacity; the star of Broadway, film and television will also direct the show. Joining Hirsch in Art will be Cotter Smith and Jack Willis. Reza’s Tony Award-winning Best Play, about an all-white painting and how one man's purchase of it irrevocably alters his relationship with his two best friends, was translated by Christopher Hampton.

Hirsch starred in the Reza play on Broadway and then in the national tour. Apparently drawn to the project, he then directed the work last summer at Maine's Ogunquit Playhouse. David Dukes, William Atherton and Jack Willis starred in that production. Dukes died on Oct. 9 in Tacoma, WA, a sudden development which perhaps inspired Hirsch to also star in the Paper Mill production.

The production team comprises set designer Ani Blackburn, lighting designer Cletus Karamon and sound designer Dave Paterson.

Tickets are $37 - $60 with $15 student rush tickets available on the day of performance. For tickets and information call the box office at (973) 376-4343.

—By Murdoch McBride and Robert Simonson