Just because you started an acting or filmmaking dynasty doesn't mean your apples will fall close to the tree. Take Francis Ford Coppola and his ridiculous nephew, Nicolas Cage, for instance. The legacy of the Drews and the Barrymores has been altered for the new generations by the silly film choices of the grandchild who shares both family names (you could easily blame Hollywood for the dearth of good roles, however). But if you like older films, you're probably familiar with her grandfather John Barrymore, the handsome talent who starred in silent and "talkie" films, as "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" and many Shakespearean roles.

John is the subject of Limelight Productions' new show, "Barrymore," written by William Luce and starring David C. Woodworth as the man himself. The one-character biography features the 60-year-old legend (at the age that he died), who has rented a stage to prepare for a comeback performance of "Richard III," as he reminisces about better times and offers comedic imitations of his siblings.

The production kicks off at 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 30, at MuCCC (142 Atlantic Ave.). The show continues through June 8, with performances at 8 p.m. on Friday, May 31, through Saturday, June 1, and Thursday, June 6, through Saturday, June 8, and a matinee performance at 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 2. Tickets cost $10-$12 in advance, and $18-$20 at the door. Call 527-0884 or visit muccc.org for additional information.

REBECCA RAFFERTY