Mark Lamos directs Brian Hutchison as George and Mark Mineart as Lennie in the 1937 Depression-era drama that officially opens Oct. 10 and will run through Nov. 1.

Of Mice and Men was originally to be directed by the late Paul Newman, who lost his battle with cancer Sept. 26. The Westport production is dedicated in his honor.

The cast also includes Mateo Gomez (Boss), Kene Holliday (Crooks), Matthew Montelongo (Slim), Betsy Morgan (Curly's Wife), Tommy Nohilly (Carlson), Sean Patrick Reilly (Whit), Rafael Sardina (Curly) and Edward Seamon (Candy).

Press notes for Of Mice and Men state, "George dreams of owning land and being his own boss. His mentally challenged partner, Lennie, simply dreams of playing with rabbits. Having encountered problems at their last job, George and Lennie are forced to flee to a new farm for work, until Lennie's simple-minded strength gets them into trouble."

The design team includes Tony Award winner Michael Yeargan (scenic designer), Jane Greenwood (costume designer) and John Gromada (sound designer and original score). Mark Lamos has directed the Broadway productions of Our Country's Good, Cymbeline, Seascape, The Rivals, The Gershwin's Fascinating Rhythm and The Deep Blue Sea.

Tickets are available by calling (203) 227-4177 or by visiting www.westportplayhouse.org.

In its 78-season history, the Westport Country Playhouse — located in Westport, CT — has produced more than 700 plays, 35 of which have transferred to Broadway.