Pantophobia, defined as "the fear or dread of everything," is the name of the new comedy opening Jan. 29 at the Powerhouse Theatre in Santa Monica. Written and performed by Abraham Amadeo and Peter Paige, the play explores fear as a powerful, governing force in our lives. According to a press release, the play will address "fear of God, fear of death, fear of homosexuality, fear of heterosexuality, fear of bisexuality, fear of ugliness, fear of obesity, fear of appearing foolish, fear of guns, fear of needles, fear of disease, fear of flying, fear of snakes, fear of spiders, fear of missing something, fear of confrontation...and, since this is a theatre piece, stage fright."

Kaile Shilling is the director. Pantophobia plays Thurs.-Sun. at the Powerhouse Theatre, 3116 Second St., Santa Monica. Call (310) 396-3680 for information.

-- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent