The Pillowman at Berkeley Rep Jan.12 - Feb.25

Berkeley Repertory Theatre begins the year with an Oscar and Olivier Award-winning writer, an Obie Award-winning director, and a play the New York Times called "a spellbinding stunner." Get ready for an edgy and enthralling evening when Les Waters tackles the latest shocking script from Martin McDonagh. The Pillowman mesmerized audiences during its recent London and Broadway runs – now this darkly funny thriller comes to Berkeley Rep's intimate Thrust Stage, beginning previews on January 12 and opening January 17, to close February 25.

The Pillowman is "a viciously funny comedy where 'the laughs trail into gulps and gasps,' a mystery where 'whodunit' is the least of your concerns," states press notes, "A man tells creepy stories to entertain his mentally challenged brother – but then grisly murders that mirror these tales slice through town, and two cops come knocking. With murder, mutilation, and dismemberment on the menu, comedies don't come any blacker than this – you won't believe you're screaming with laughter!"

Production designed by Antje Ellermann (sets), Anna R. Oliver (costumes), Russell H. Champa (lights), and Obadiah Eaves (sound). Cast featuring Tony Amendola, Nancy Carlin, Erik Lochtefeld, Brigette Renee Lundy-Paine, Matthew Maher, Andy Murray, Brendan Reilly, Madeline Silverman, Howard Swain, and Gabriel Vergez.

Show times are Tuesdays & Fridays at 8PM; Wednesdays at 7PM; Thursdays & Saturdays at 2 & 8PM; and Sundays at 2 & 7PM. There is no performance Friday, Feb. 23 and no matinees during previews or on Jan. 18, 27, Feb. 1, 10 & 15.

Tickets ($33 - $61) can be purchased at the Berkeley Rep box office, by phone at 510-647-2949 or toll-free at 888-4BRT-Tix, or simply visiting www.berkeleyrep.org.

Berkeley Rep's Thrust Stage is located at 2025 Addison Street, one block from Berkeley's downtown BART station and close to AC Transit bus lines. The theatre is accessible to the handicapped, offering wheelchair seating and special services for those with hearing- or vision-impairment.