LOS ANGELES -- After five years of single revival productions, the Matrix Theatre Company will present two new, contemporary works in repertory. Both shows are double cast and actors will alternate performances.

Opening April 23 is The Water Children by Wendy MacLeod in a West Coast premiere; the play was first seen last fall at Playwrights Horizon and the Women's Project in New York. John Simon of New York Magazine called it "the most intelligent and entertaining play of the season."

Opening May 14 is the world premiere of Yield of the Long Bond by Larry Atlas, directed by Andrew J. Robinson (Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Best Director for The Homecoming and Endgame--the only double winner in the 30-year history of the Circle). A drama, Yield of the Long Bond centers on a financier under investigation by the SEC, a female corporate attorney and an Episcopalian priest. The cast includes Julia Campbell, David Dukes, Anna Gunn, Gregory Izen, Byron Jennings and Ian McShane.

The Water Children deals with the right-to-life movement and the battle for reproductive rights. Lisa James directs a cast including Dave Higgins, Wendy Makkena, Sara Rue, Sarah Bibb, Pam Dawber, Cindy Katz and Christopher Gorham, among others.

Once open, the shows will run in tandem, with Yield playing Tues. through Fridays at 8 PM; Children Sun. through Mon. at 8 PM with Sunday shows at 3 & 7 PM. The Matrix is located at 7657 Melrose Ave. Tickets are $20. Call (213) 852-1445.

-- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent