Occupant: Mercedes Ruehl to star in world premiere of Edward Albee's drama

Mercedes Ruehl is to star in the Signature Theatre Company's world premiere of Edward Albee's, Occupant, directed by Pam MacKinnon, opening at the Peter Norton Space on 29 May 2008, following previews from 6 May and running through to 29 Jun 2008.

Occupant: A portrait of acclaimed sculptor Louise Nevelson (Mercedes Ruehl) and a quest to capture a charismatic and complex artist and persona. What is the relationship between creator and creation? Who was Louise Nevelson? Only she knew.

Additional casting and creative team information for Edward Albee�S Occupant will be announced at a later date. Tickets will go on sale in early March.

Mercedes Ruehl last appeared on the New York stage when she played 'Stevie' in the Broadway production of Edward Albee�s 'The Goat, or Who is Sylvia?' (2002), for which she was nominated for a Tony Award. Ruehl was nominated for a Tony for her performance in 'Shadow Box' (1994 revival), and won the 1991 Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for her portrayal of 'Bella' in 'Lost in Yonkers' (1991). She won an academy award in 1992 for her role in the movie 'The Fisher King.'

Edward Albee's many plays include 'Who�s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' (1961-62, Tony Award), 'A Delicate Balance' (1966, Pulitzer Prize; 1996, Tony Award), 'Seascape' (1974, Pulitzer Prize), 'Three Tall Women' (1991, Pulitzer Prize), 'The Goat, or Who Is Sylvia?' (2000, 2002 Tony Award). Albee was awarded a special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2005.