PLAYING GAMES By Brian Maticic Arrives At Space 55

Space 55 is kicking off their 13th year of off-kilter theatre with a special co-production from Brelby Theatre Company. "Playing Games" by Brian Maticic offers audiences an unpredictable, entertaining, and wild ride of farcical, dark comedy.

The play tells the story of Mel and Bryson, who keep their marriage alive in unique and surprising ways. When Matt - an unsuspecting stranger - stumbles into their lives, he immediately descends into a world of twisted games and manipulation. His only reprieve is Liz, Mel's seemingly down to earth sister, but is it all a game? The past won't stay hidden for long in this dark humored story of deception, passion, and ruthless confrontation.

"We're excited to welcome Brelby to Space 55," shares John Perovich, Space 55 Artistic Director. "This play is a great fit for us. Not only is Brian an unpredictable and energetic writer, he also creates innovative, offbeat worlds that our audiences love to indulge in."

Maticic penned the original version of "Playing Games" for his senior thesis project at Northern Arizona University. The play was a part of Brelby's inaugural MainStage season and was last seen in the final year of the Phoenix Fringe Festival. Maticic has incorporated several new rewrites into the current version of the script.

"At Brelby, we pride ourselves on creating intimate theatre," says director and Brelby Artistic Director Shelby Maticic. "It's been a few years since we've produced a show in a venue this size. It's challenging, exciting, and will make the audience feel like they're part of the action."

"I love a play that keeps the audience guessing," continues the director. "Who is really playing who? It's all one big game, and we don't find out who comes out the victor until the very end...or do we?"

Space 55 and Brelby Theatre Company invite audiences to gasp, laugh, and enjoy putting together the puzzle of "Playing Games." The production features performances by Melody Chrispen, Bertha Alicia Cortes, Devon Mahon, Brian Maticic, and Alex Tuchi.

"Playing Games" is presented August 4, 10-11 and 17-18 at 8:00 p.m. and August 5, 12 and 19 at 2 p.m. The play is intimately staged at the quirky new home of Space 55: 1524 N. 18th Avenue, Phoenix, Ariz., 85007. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased by visiting www.space55.org.