As scheduled, Laurence Holder's 1990 Off-Broadway hit, Zora Neale Hurston, finishes its acclaimed return to the American Place Theatre, Dec. 13. The revival of the two-actor bio began Oct. 21 and officially opened Oct. 29.

Original director Wynn Handman returned to Zora with original star Elizabeth Van Dyke as Hurston. Van Dyke has toured the show around the world since 1990.

Joseph Edward also stars, playing various men Hurston's life. Zora Neale Hurston takes place in 1949, as the Harlem Renaissance novelist and folklorist begins her decline, recounting the history of one of the most prolific African-American writers of the 1920s and '30s.

Her most famous work is the novel, "Their Eyes Were Watching God." Interest in the nearly-forgotten Hurston was renewed beginning in the 1970s when Alice Walker sought out Hurston's obscure grave site and wrote a famous appreciation for the author.

The original production featured Van Dyke and Tim Johnson with direction by Handman. It garnered three Audelco Awards for Excellence in Black Theatre: one for the production, one for Van Dyke, and one for Handman. Tickets are $17.50 in previews and $35 during the run. The American Place Theatre Mainstage is located at 111 West 46th Street in New York City. Call (212) 239-6200 for tickets.

According to the Springer/Chicoine press office (Dec. 10), next on the mainstage will be Theatre For A New Audience's Iphigenia Cycle and "The Scottish Play," while Sakina's Restaurant continues (at least) through Jan. 3, 1999 on the second stage.

-- By Kenneth Jones
and Christine Ehren