Judd Hirsch opens in the Paper Mill Playhouse production of Yasmina Reza’s Art, which runs Jan. 3-Feb. 4 at New Jersey’s State Theatre. As reported earlier, Hirsch takes the stage in an expanded capacity; the star of Broadway, film and television roles 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.

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