As the U.S. moves deeper and deeper into the media circus that is the presidential election, what better time for a revival of Wendy Wasserstein's satirical drama, An American Daughter, which looks at the scrutiny a candidate for government office must, rightly or wrongly, endure at the hands of the press and public? Though a commercial disappointment on Broadway, the show has received several regional mountings, including one last May at CT's Long Wharf Theatre.

Now An American Daughter surfaces at CA's North Coast Repertory Theatre for a run Feb. 24-April 9, officially opening Feb. 26. Rosina Reynolds directs the piece, which features a set design by Marty Burnett.

An American Daughter concerns a doctor nominated for U.S. Surgeon General. When a minor infraction involving jury duty snowballs into a media firestorm, her political life is shattered. The situation somewhat resembles the story of real-life Attorney General nominee Zoe Baird.

Daughter's 1997 Broadway incarnation featured Kate Nelligan, Hal Holbrook, Peter Riegert and Lynne Thigpen. Though it had its critic defenders, the show did not fare well -- unusual for Wasserstein, whose previously unbroken string of hits included Uncommon Women And Others, Isn't It Romantic, The Heidi Chronicles and The Sisters Rosensweig. For tickets ($18-$20) and information on An American Daughter at NCRT, 987 D Lomas Santa Fe Drive in Solana Beach, call (888) 776-NCRT.

Next up at NCRT will be Richard Brinsley Sheridan's comedy, The Rivals, adapted by artistic director Sean Murray and Tim Irving (April 20-May 28). -- By David Lefkowitz