Similarly, Red and Tan Line, a comedy by Peter Mercurio that relies on gay cliches and improbable scenarios, is blessed with four talented actors who rise above the questionable material they're saddled with in this story of gay brothers comparing "dates from hell." As Tom and Rick, Tony Hamilton and Christopher McFarland (who look absolutely nothing alike) display nice presence and some sharp timing but it's Josh Casaubon and James McLaughlin who get to chew the scenery in a variety of outlandish supporting roles. They're both terrific with stunner Casaubon proving a drop-dead, gorgeous hunk can actually act too. Who knew?

In the world of theatre, the phrase "scheduling conflicts" is sometimes used as a euphemism for contract issues, squabbling casts or money woes, but in the land of Off-Off Broadway it often means an actor got an important gig that impacts the tiny production at hand.

Such is the case for the world premiere of Red and Tan Line, the new play by Peter Mercurio getting an Equity run at the Bank Street Theatre starting March 8 in Greenwich Village. Performances of the comedy about two gay brothers' misadventures in the dating world were to have begun March 6, but a company scheduling conflict prevented it. Two more shows will be added in the run, 3 PM March 15 and 22 to make up the difference. Performances continue to March 23.

Other Side Productions, the Off-Off-Broadway Equity company that's given voice to gay-themed plays by new playwrights, presents the "comic look at the hilarious trials and tribulations of gay dating through the eyes of two gay brothers in New York City — one living on the East Side, the other on the West Side; one looking for Mr. Right, one looking for Mr. Right Now," according to production notes.

They compete to find the right partner "in a sibling rivalry that takes them through a string of comical dates, fix-ups, and flings." The play has its roots in a critically-praised one-act, Refreshments, seen in December 2001 at the Bank Street.

Chuck Blasius directs. The cast includes Josh Casaubon, Tony Hamilton, Christopher McFarland and James McLaughlin.

Designers are Josh Pugliese (set), Rob Hilliard (lighting)and Roger Anderson (sound). Choreography is by Duane Domutz.