South Coast Repertory Opens THE MOTHERF**KER WITH THE HAT, 1/6

Comedy often comes out of desperate circumstances. Laughter can follow as people try to change those circumstances by making better choices in life.

That's the heart of Stephen Adly Guirgis' play The Motherf**ker with the Hat, the Broadway hit at South Coast Repertory Jan. 6-27. The production is directed by Michael John Garcés, artistic director at Cornerstone Theatre Company.

Recently sprung from prison, Jackie has an AA sponsor and is back with Veronica, who's been the love of his life since eighth grade. But Veronica can't shake her drug habit and refuses to answer questions about "the man hat that-ain't-my-hat" on her bedside table. The irreverent title says a lot, but it doesn't say it all in this surprising look at acceptance, loyalty and love.

"This is a play about people who are on The Edge of really falling apart," said Garcés. "It also is a play about people trying to be better human beings: better in their decisions, better to the people they love, better at being responsible. It's a play about addiction and that can affect people's lives and families regardless of background or economic situation. And the play is really funny."

The Wall Street Journal called it "one of the best new plays in ages," and USA Today proclaimed it "hilarious...as provocative as it is absorbing."

The cast includes Larry Bates, Christian Barillas, Elisa Bocanegra, Cristina Frias and Tony Sanchez.

"Stephen Adly Guirgis uses rough language to make deeply insightful statements about love and the human condition, which is ultimately what great playwrights do," said Garcés. "He also is able to tackle important issues, in this case alcoholism and the effects of addiction, in a way that makes for great, engrossing and entertaining storytelling."

The design team includes Nephelie Andonyadis, scenic design, Leah Piehl, costume design, Thomas Ontiveros, lighting, Bruno Louchouarn, original music and sound, Edgar Landa, fight choreographer and Kathryn Davies, stage manager.

The Motherf**ker with the Hat is generously supported by Honorary Producers Jean and Tim Weiss.

Tickets range from $20-70. Discounts are available for full-time students, patrons 25 years of age and under, fulltime educators, seniors and groups of 10 or more. For complete information, visit: www.scr.org.