Two hours plus one crazy family equals lots of laughs as one dysfunctional Texas clan rolls into town this weekend.

First debuting in Los Angeles in 1996, “Sordid Lives,” a comedy by

Del Shores, was sold out for 13 months and grabbed 13 Critics’ Choice Awards.

In 2000, Del Shores took his success to the screen, writing a movie version of “Sordid Lives” starring Olivia Newton-John, Delta Burke and Beau Bridges.

“This play makes you take a step out of your life and is a distraction from the problems in our lives,” said Kelli Harrington, a senior drama and Spanish double major from Lilburn.

“Plus, it’s good to see that there are other crazy families out there.”

“Sordid Lives” opens the University Theater’s 2007-2008 season and is described as “a black comedy about white trash.”

The play documents the lives of three generations as they reunite in their hometown in Texas to mourn the loss of their matriarch, who dies from a fatal accident after committing adultery.

“There have been lots of plays written about growing up in the South, but this one is different,” said Dr. Farley Richmond, director of the play and Professor and Director of the Center for Asian Studies at the University.

“We’re seeing these people through the eyes of a young man who’s gone off to make his way in the world, so it’s a coming-of-age story, but it’s fast-paced rather than reflective.”

Though comedic, “Sordid Lives” touches on personal and social issues. The play demonstrates that everyone copes with the death of a loved one differently while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy in their lives.

One character is a rejected, gun-touting housewife. Others include Ty, a soap star trying to find the courage to “come out” to his mother, and Brother Boy Ingram, a transvestite who finds relief impersonating Tammy Wynette.

“There isn’t a character in this play who isn’t crazy,” said Richmond.

Helping to guide viewers through the antics of the different characters is a singing ex-con Bitsy Mae Darling, who first met the matriarch in a bar and discloses information about her life in increments throughout the play.

“This play is quite funny and it’s relevant. It deals with adult subject material and students will really enjoy it,” said Vanessa Ford, director of public relations for the department of film.

Richmond was quick to echo this sentiment.

“The emphasis is on having a good laugh at the outrageous behavior of these extreme comic characters,” he said.