Washington DC theatregoers have an extra week to catch Ted Van Griethuysen starring in Sebastian Barry's one man drama, The Steward of Christendom. The show opened Apr. 1 at the Studio Theatre and has just been extended past its May 1 announced close to May 10.

The play explores of the mind of Tom Dunne, an Irishman locked in a Dublin madhouse. Irish independence arrived years earlier, and Dunne, separated from his Loyalist past, escapes into his memories.

Joy Zinoman directs The Steward of Christendom. Other design staffers include Russell Metheny (sets), Joseph Appelt (lighting), Helen Q. Huang (costumes), Contessa Riggs (props) and Gil Thompson (sound).

Steward was originally produced in March 1995 by director Max Stafford-Clark's Out of Joint Theatre Company in association with The Royal Court Theatre; it was that same production that came to BAM last season.

As a special event, May 6 will be "Irish-British Night," to celebrate the peace accord in Northern Ireland. A post-show party with live music -- and lots of ale -- will be part of the festivities. For tickets ($19.50-$34.50) call (202) 332-3300 or visit the Studio Theatre's web site for more box office information. -- By Christine Ehren and David Lefkowitz