Chattanooga Theatre Centre's production of 'Love/Sick' comes with a bonus

"Love/Sick," a romantic comedy from John Cariani, opens Friday, Feb. 10, at the Chattanooga Theatre Centre with a bonus segment that can be seen only by CTC audiences.

A darker cousin to "Almost, Maine," also by Cariani, "Love/Sick" is a collection of 10 slightly twisted and completely hilarious short plays in which couples meet or break up or learn to love each other more. Set on a Friday night in an alternate suburban reality, this romp explores the pain and the joy that come with being in love. Full of imperfect lovers and dreamers, "Love/Sick" may be best described as an unromantic comedy for the romantic in everyone.

"Love/Sick," as published, is made up of nine short plays, but CTC director Scott Dunlap is a longtime friend of the playwright, so Cariani gave the CTC a 10th segment exclusively for this production.

That one, titled "Chicken," is about a man who surprises his wife with the revelation that he is tired of the "highs and lows" of life and their relationship and wants to try life on his own.

In addition to his work as a playwright, Cariani is an award-winning actor who has appeared on and off Broadway and in several films and television shows. He was nominated for a Tony Award for his role as Motel the Tailor in the Broadway revival of "Fiddler on the Roof." Television viewers know him as the unwavering forensic expert Julian Beck in "Law & Order."

Cariani's "Almost, Maine" was a surprise hit for the CTC during the 2008-09 season, the first year it was licensed for performance. Since that time, it has become one of the most-performed plays in the world, particularly in high schools where it has bumped "A Midsummer Night's Dream" out of the top spot.

"Love/Sick" follows the same format as "Almost, Maine," with short vignettes woven together and happening simultaneously. But there is a difference, says Dunlap.

"'Almost, Maine' is like candy - easy to consume and fun. 'Love/Sick,' however, is more like a rich dessert - something that is like dark chocolate and cherries and cognac. The subject matter is a little more serious, the themes are a little darker, but it's still funny and endearing."

There will be 10 performances on the Circle Stage through Sunday, Feb. 26.