Carapace received developmental workshops at the Kennedy Center and at the Mark Taper Forum prior to its Alliance premiere. Ivey (Hurlyburly, The Glass Menagerie) directs the production, which began previews Feb. 11 for a run through March 6 on the Alliance's Hertz Stage.

"It's rare that I read a script that I simply can't put down, but that is exactly what happened when I read Carapace," Ivey said in a statement. "In addition to being a thrilling ride, it raises beautiful questions about parenting and the connections we make — and fail to make — at the times we need help the most."

According to the Alliance, "Television sportscaster Jeff is a man on a mission to do right by his daughter on her 23rd birthday. However, his journey to reach her is riddled by roadblocks, often of his own making. As they have not been on speaking terms in some time, he must first figure out where she lives, and then find the perfect gift that can mend their broken past. But along the way, he must also make it across town and over the Mississippi River, avoiding the still-wrecked 35W bridge, piece together the right words to reach her, and overcome his ever-present thirst to have just one quick drink when he feels stressed."

The cast features David deVries as Jeff and Bethany Anne Lind as Margo, as well as Joe Knezevich, Paul Hester, Mark Kincaid and Tony Larkin.

The design team includes Lex Liang (set and costume design), John Ambrosone (lighting design) and Clay Benning (sound design).

For tickets phone (404) 733-5000 or visit AllianceTheatre.