The Repertory East Playhouse will continue its 2008 Main Stage Season with the 1999 Pulitzer Prize-winning drama "Wit," written by Margaret Edson and sponsored by Serve Pro.

In her extraordinary first play, Edson has created a work that is as intellectually challenging as it is emotionally immediate.

"This is a very powerful and immediate piece of theatre that speaks to all of us. As artists, this is the kind of theatre that we strive to do and it stays with us for our entire careers. We consider it to be a tremendous responsibility and are honored to be producing this challenging and beautiful piece. It is truly touching." says Artistic Director Ovington Michael Owston.

"Wit" opens on Friday, March 7, with an opening night gala at 7 p.m. and curtain at 8 p.m. The opening night gala is sponsored by Travel Center Santa Clarita with wine and food sponsored by Loose Goose Wine Festival and RSVP Catering.

"Wit" will run through April 5. Show times are Friday and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $17 for adults, $15 for students and seniors. Group rates are available.

Advance reservations are highly recommended. For tickets, purchase online at www.repeastplayhouse.org or call 661-288-0000.

The REP will host two post show discussions on Sunday March 9th and March 16th immediately following the show. Join the cast and crew for an intimate discussion about the process of creating live theatre.

The main character in Edson's play has ovarian cancer, a type of cancer that, if it is not caught in the initial stages, few women survive. In order for research doctors to find a cure, they must experiment with different kinds of drug treatments. Edson's play looks at the ethics behind this need and the consequences of this need upon the patient.

Although the topic of the play sounds grim, Edson says that the play is about love and knowledge, grace and redemption. She uses the word "wit" not so much to convey a sense of comedy (although there are several moments of intelligent humor) but rather to reflect the natural ability to perceive and understand.

"Wit" is directed by Erin Rivlin with Ransom Boynton serving as assistant director. The show stars REP newcomers Susan Watkins, Bess Fanning and Orestes Arcuni along with REP favorites Daniel Lench and Marla Khayat.