Coulrophobia is the fear of clowns. Though characters in Murphy Guyer's World of Mirth don't suffer from this illness, they soon might. The new play, which began performances June 13, opens June 21 for an open-ended run at Manhattan's Theatre Four.

World of Mirth focuses on the other not-so-funny side of the carnival world. The troupe of carnies are facing money problems and the vicious digs by the dunk-tank clown. The production is directed by Dona D. Vaughn.

The cast of Mirth includes Victor Slezak (Jackie: An American Life), George Bartenieff (I Will Bear Witness), Jack Willis (Troilus & Cressida), Mark Johannes (Perfect Crime), Deirdre O'Connell (the film "City of Angels"), John Elsen (from TV's "Ed") newcomer Kieran Campion, and Angela Gots.

The creative team includes Michael Brown (sets), Tracy Christensen (costumes), James Vermeulen (lighting) and Bruce Ellman (sound).

Guyer currently serves as Associate Artist for playwriting at The Cleveland Playhouse. Other of his works include Eden's Court, The Interrogation, The Metaphor, The American Century, and The Enchanted Maze. For tickets to World of Mirth at Theatre Four, 424 West 55th, call (212) 239 6200.

— by Ernio Hernandez