Directed by Bjørn Johnson, the classic comedy will officially open Jan. 16 and play through March 7.

The cast will comprise Phillip William Brock, Benjamin Burdick, Colin Campbell, Laura Flanagan, Richard Michael Knolla, Kevin McCorkle, Barbara Schofield, Dominic Spillane, Andrea Syglowski and Amanda Weier.

"At the Boston tryout of a new Broadway show," press notes state, "the lead actress, the backer, the director and several others, are all in seventh heaven anticipating a tremendous success with the earnest and experimental work of a young unknown writer. Gathered in a hotel room, they prepare for their big Opening Night with tremendous gusto and many exhibitions of temperament. Following the play's first public performance however, the cast, director and backer believe it a flop. Instantly they turn against themselves, the production, and the author and savagely proceed in what looks like an attempt to destroy themselves and all their former hopes and dreams for their show. Nevertheless, it turns out that in spite of the curious reception by the first night audience, the play has made a deep impression, and when news spreads that the reviews are good, the tables are turned once again in this funny and wonderful classic."

The design team includes scenic designer Victoria Profitt, costume designer A. Jeffrey Schoenberg, lighting designer Ellen Monocroussos and sound designer Peter Carlstedt.

Caitlin R. Campbell produces. The New Open Fist Theatre is located at 6209 Santa Monica Blvd. in Hollywood, CA. For tickets call (323) 882-6912 or visit www.openfist.org.