Speed the Plow

David Mamet’s landmark script from 1988 depicts the ever-shifting world of the Hollywood meat grinder. Mid-level producer Bobby Gould (actor Mark Heckman) is approached by longtime “friend” Charlie Fox (Anthony Sava) with a marketable idea for a mindless buddy film. Gould’s temp secretary Karen (Tygar Lynn Hicks) is not as dumb as she looks, and becomes a factor as well. The play features Mamet’s rude, rapid-fire dialogue. And the seduction scene between producer and secretary recalls the line about “who’s zooming who?” This small studio production is very much an actors’ piece, with basic lighting, minimal sound design and a simple set.
Actors Theatre of Sacramento, 8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays; $13-$15. California Stage, 1723 25th Street; (916) 456-7066; www.actinsac.com. Through October 12.