Opening night for the Obie Award-winning performer is Jan. 23, with performances continuing through Feb. 22.

The production is directed by Tony Taccone, artistic director of Berkeley Repertory Theatre (where the production premiered) and comes to the Douglas after engagements around the country including a run at The Public Theater in Manhattan.

Taking Over is billed as "a riveting study of the effects of gentrification and how this is changing the face of many American cities. Hoch seamlessly transforms himself into the vividly diverse characters from his hometown, the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn, and into the real estate agents and developers who are shepherding radical changes into the district's character and nature. Filling the stage with compelling, impeccably drawn, multicultural portraits, Hoch captures the complexities of the transition of a poorer urban community, once vibrant and colorful — albeit crime and cocaine-ridden — into a culture that is wealthier, less diverse, and the cause of higher rents and property values, and the subsequent displacement of long-term residents."

The production features scenic and costume design by Annie Smart, lighting design and projections by Alexander V. Nichols, original music by Asa Taccone and sound design by Adam Phalen. The production stage manager is David S. Franklin.

Hoch's Some People (Obie Award) was part of CTG's 1995 Taper, Too season, and his Jails, Hospitals & Hip-Hop was presented as a CTG special event in 1998 at The Actors' Gang. Hoch is a 2008-2009 Guggenheim Fellow. For tickets, call (213) 628-2772, or visit www.CenterTheatreGroup.org. The Kirk Douglas Theatre is located at 9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA.