The CSUN theatre department’s production of Bertolt Brecht’s classic “Caucasian Chalk Circle” opens Friday, Nov. 18 in the VPAC’s Experimental Theatre.

“Caucasian Chalk Circle,” based on a Chinese parable of two women who claim one child as their own, is one of experimental playwright Bertolt Brecht’s most well-known pieces.

“Brecht was a game-changer of play writing,” said Bill Taylor, theatre manager. “He aimed to demystify theatre, and in the process he made it all the more magical.”

The play has a cast of 89 and 17 separate sets, said Taylor. The production also includes masks, puppetry and music.

“It’s a unique opportunity to see something we don’t see that often,” said Taylor.

The Nov. 18 performance is already sold out, but tickets are still available for Nov. 19, 20 and 30 as well as Dec. 1 through 4.

“Bertolt Brecht was an utterly original visionary,” said Melissa Chalsma in her directors note for the play.  “I find his belief that theater can change the world for the better to be almost unendurably touching and deeply inspiring. It is an earnest, revolutionary (quite possibly delusional) idea worth fighting for.”

Early bird student tickets are $9, but will increase to $15 after opening night. General admission is $20, and senior and faculty tickets are $17 and $16, respectively. The Nov. 30 performance will be interpreted for the deaf and hard of hearing.