Peter Mellencamp’s adaptation of Bertolt Brecht’s early, poetical drama is about the cruelty and demise of a bacchanalian poet who recognizes, curses and is cursed by civilization’s thin veneer. Ben Rock’s staging is sometimes forced, more often intense and seductive, with Gregory Sims’ growling title character bearing a physical resemblance to young Al Pacino but with a voice like Tom Waits. Sacred Fools Theatre Company, 660 Heliotrope Drive, L.A.; Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m. (added perf Thurs., Jan. 28, 8 p.m.); through February 20. (310) 281-8337.

Fridays, Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Thu., Jan. 28, 8 p.m. Starts: Jan. 15. Continues through Feb. 20, 2010

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