Danny Hoch's TAKING OVER Previews Tonight 1/21

Danny Hoch's solo performance piece "Taking Over" previews tonight, January 21, 2009, and tomorrow night at 8 p.m. at the Center Theatre Group/Kirk Douglas Theatre. Opening night for the Obie Award-winning performer is Friday, January 23 (at 8 p.m.). Performances continue through February 22. The production is directed by Tony Taccone, artistic director of Berkeley Repertory Theatre.

"Taking Over" is a riveting study of the effects of gentrification and how this is changing the face of many American cities. Hoch seamlessly transforms himself into the vividly diverse characters from his hometown, the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn, and into the real estate agents and developers who are shepherding radical changes into the district's character and nature. Filling the stage with compelling, impeccably drawn, multicultural portraits, Hoch captures the complexities of the transition of a poorer urban community, once vibrant and colorful - albeit crime and cocaine-ridden - into a culture that is wealthier, less diverse, and the cause of higher rents and property values, and the subsequent displacement of long-term residents.

The production features scenic and costume design by Annie Smart, lighting design and projections by Alexander V. Nichols, original music by Asa Taccone and sound design by Adam Phalen. The production stage manager is David S. Franklin.

"Taking Over" was originally produced by Berkeley Repertory Theatre and recently played at The Public Theater in New York. Hoch's "Some People" (Obie Award) was part of CTG's 1995 Taper, Too season, while his "Jails, Hospitals & Hip-Hop" was presented as a CTG special event in 1998 at The Actors' Gang. Hoch is a 2008-2009 Guggenheim Fellow.

Tickets for "Taking Over" range from $20 - $45 and are available by calling (213) 628-2772, online at www.CenterTheatreGroup.org, in person at the Center Theatre Group box office at the Ahmanson Theatre or two hours prior to performances at the Kirk Douglas Theatre box office. Hot Tix may be purchased at $20 each in advance or, subject to availability, on the day of performance at the box office. The Kirk Douglas Theatre is located at 9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232.

The Lounge, a newly designed bar area in the lobby of the theatre, features pre-show box dinners, sandwiches and other snacks. On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, The Lounge remains open after performances and features a full bar, music and lively conversation.

Photos by Kevin Berne