Berkeley Rep artistic director Tony Taccone directs the solo to open Feb. 18 at the California stage's Roda Theatre. The seven-week limited run will conclude March 30.
Written and performed by the Hollywood star and writer, the show follows Fisher's life. "Aside from a demanding career and her role as a single mother, Carrie spends her free time battling addiction, weathering the wild ride of manic depression, and lounging around various mental institutions, reads show notes. The work offers insights and experiences from her life and career covering everything from "Star Wars" to having Elizabeth Taylor as a stepmother to her marriage with Paul Simon and more.
Of her show, Fisher states "I'm really looking forward to doing multiple shows at Berkeley Rep. I was essentially raised in my mother's nightclub act, so it's very natural for me to do what most people find unnatural – which in this case would be getting on stage and telling stories. I've often said many of my relatives – including me – were designed more for public then private. And I always say, 'If my life weren't funny, it would just be true – and that's unacceptable.' So please come to see my show at Berkeley Rep, otherwise I'll end up talking about myself alone in the dark. Again!"
Designers for the production include Alexander V. Nichols (scenic/ lighting/ projections) and Christina Wright (costume). Nicole Dickerson serves as stage manager.
Fisher debuted her solo at Los Angeles' Geffen Playhouse where it enjoyed an extended run from November 2006 into January 2007. The Berkeley run is presented in association with Jonathan Reinis Productions. Wishful Drinking replaced the previously announced production of Glorious! (which was to star Rita Moreno). The change was due to a conflict with Moreno's schedule.
The season continues with Will Eno's Tragedy: a tragedy (March 28-April 27) and Theatre de la Jeune Lune's Figaro (April 25-June 8).
Tickets to shows at Berkeley Rep, 2025 Addison Street in Berkeley, CA, are available by calling (510) 647-2949 or toll free at (888) 4 BRT-tix. For more information visit the website at www.berkeleyrep.org.