There is a thriving theater scene in Los Angeles, with a dedicated core audience that supports local theater companies and seeks out challenging new stage productions. On the other hand, there aren't many people outside that core audience who have any idea local theater companies even exist in LA. They do, and if you've never checked them out, you're missing some of the best dramatic work being produced in this city.

We are a movie town. But if you branch out and take a break from the movie theater for an evening, you might just find a whole new world at your fingertips. Case in point: The Dying Gaul opens tonight. It's a tragic tale of loss, sex, and betrayal set right here in Hollywood in 1995. It was written by Craig Lucas, author of Prelude to a Kiss. There's only so many hours of Project Runway you can watch at one time. So take a chance and try something new.

The Dying Gaul Basics

• Address: The Elephant Theatre at 6322 Santa Monica Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90038
• Phone: (323) 960-7745
• Dates: March 20 - April 19
• Time: Thurs - Sat: 8pm
• Tickets: $20
• Website: www.plays411.com/dyinggaul

  _{Photo © The Fine Arts Players}