The American play, set in Milwaukee, has been a hit in theatres around the country and internationally. An early production was seen at the Humana Festival of New American Plays at Actors Theatre of Louisville.

Producers were aiming the play for either Off-Broadway or Broadway in the last year, but announced Feb. 23 that its nest would be Off-Broadway's Century Center for the Performing Arts, off Union Square. It opens April 27 following previews. David Grillo and Matthew Salinger produce.

Larry Moss (The Syringa Tree) directs the new production. Metwally (Sixteen Wounded) plays a young Armenian named Aram, who comes to Milwaukee for a better life; Lena Georgas plays his wife; Zorich (45 Minutes From Broadway, She Loves Me) is a Gentleman, a character important in the couple's life; and Matthew Borish is a young boy they take in.

Designers are Neil Patel (scenic), Anita Yavich (costume) and David Lander (lighting).

Over the last 12 years, Beast on the Moon has been seen around the world with productions in 17 different countries, translated into 12 different languages, having received more than 40 significant awards. The New York premiere of Beast on the Moon coincides with the 90th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.

According to production notes, Kalinoski's interest in the subject was spurred by his seven-year marriage to an Armenian woman. "This play tells a story that the Turkish government has spent the last 90 years trying to erase from the world's consciousness," Kalinoski said in press notes. "But this is a story that the world needs to know. The story is universal. Healing is universal. The denial has got to stop so that healing can begin."

Century Center for the Performing Arts is at 111 E. 15th Street, off Union Square. Performances are Tuesday-Saturday at 8 PM and Sunday at 7:30 PM with matinees Saturday and Sunday at 3 PM.

Tickets are $65. For ticket information, contact Telecharge.com, (212) 239-6200.

Visit the official website at www.beastonthemoon.com.