The fruit of a two-and-a-half year theatre residency in four L.A.-area communities by playwright Lisa Loomer, Cornerstone Theatre presents the world premiere of Broken Hearts: A B.H. Mystery at the L.A. Theatre Center, Nov. 12-Dec. 12.

Directed by Cornerstone's artistic director Bill Rauch, with music by Michael Abels and performers from all four neighborhoods (Boyle Heights, Baldwin Hills, Beverly Hills and Broadway & Hill), Broken Hearts was put together by Loomer after an extensive collaborative process with residents and artists in each neighborhood. The result is a scripted mystery that traces back the history of a wedding ring lost in 1929 which resurfaces in 1999. In film noir manner, private investigator Joaquin Garcia (Armando Molina) not only manages to solve the case but maps the complex interrelations between culture, tradition and history in Los Angeles.

A company spokesperson called Broken Hearts "a musical celebration of what sometimes feels impossible in our society today: people who would otherwise never meet, coming together across differences of race, geography, age and socio-economic levels, to create innovative art and forge lasting relationships."

Loomer's previous credits include The Waiting Room, Looking for Angels and Expecting Isabel, which will have its West Coast premiere at the Mark Taper Forum next year.

The LATC is located at 514 S. Spring St. For tickets and information call (213) 485-1681. -- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent