The well-tread boards of 111 Forum will host their old friends in No Refund Theatre as they delve into a new type of drama this weekend in Sam Shepard's drama, True West.

Directed by Romel Sharma (junior-philosophy and economics), a cast of four is branching into uncharted territory with a dark comedy that is unfamiliar to what NRT has attempted in the past.

The play examines the complexities of brotherly bonds as two brothers' relationship evolves.

The movie version of the script features Gary Sinise as Austin, a Hollywood screenwriter, and his small-time criminal brother Lee, played by John Malkovich.

Lee and Austin are two brothers who seem to have little in common aside from the same mother.

When the brothers find themselves alone together in her home, they face each other uncertain of what they share.

"It explores the evolution of their relationship, and it is much more complex than it seems," Sharma said.

The play opens with Austin sitting at his mother's kitchen table, putting the finishing touches on a screenplay that has already captured the interest of producers. The last person he expects to see is his drunken brother Lee, emerging from the desert he calls home when not committing second-rate burglaries.

Initially it is as if Lee is the bully in control, while his brother Austin makes the concessions. But as in life, the fictional relationship and characters are multifaceted.

"Lee is an interesting fellow," said Mike Still (junior-political science and philosophy).

"Not really intelligent, not a lot of book smarts — but he has a knack for being able to con people, Still said."

In contrast, the successful and married-with-children Austin played by Eric Leslie (senior-theatre and computer science), is full of ambition and has moderate talent but feels he is missing something.

"Austin envies his brother's confidence," said Leslie. "He himself is not confident enough to carry through with most things."

The play takes a surprising comedic twist when the brothers have a role reversal — by the end Austin finds himself stealing toasters from kitchens while it is Lee who starts to fill the steady role.

Does this constant categorization remind anyone of his or her familial relationships?

Shepard, who has been heralded by critics as the most important American playwright since Edward Albee, has a unique ability to bring both humor and truth to the stage.

NRT will attempt to bring that dark comedy to Penn State students this weekend, with a break away from its usual comedies or large cast dramas.

As always the show is free (and donations welcome) in 111 Forum at 8 p.m. tonight and tomorrow.