'Interesting and thought provoking' are this months themes in the theatre world. Many plays to choose from. Here are a couple that boosted the attendance in the city this week and a couple ''Take a chance on" ones that could very well exceed expectations. Feel free to comment on any of them for other readers looking for a second opinion.

Chimera by Wendy Lill. A great cast, that includes David Fox and David Jansen, races to expose the truths surrounding stem cell research. Runs to Feb 11 at Tarragon Theatre

Everybody is an Asshole created and performed by Lindy Zucker and Adam Lazarus. Comedy that's well 'off the beaten path' at Jan 25-27 @ 8pm Buddies In Bad Times theatre

Half Life John Mighton's masterpiece deserves a second week of promotion. Necessary Angel's play that was a huge hit at the Tarragon last season. Two seniors in a nursing home fall for each other under the guise that they once knew each other. A play about how the memories you forget can define you as much as the memories you retain. Runs to Feb 3 at .Canstage

Curse of Ham by Leon Saul (Roots International Arts Theatre). When a fast-talking and charismatic multi-personality preacher - Hamilton Bishop aka "Bishop Ham" is accused of crimes he didn't commit, he must defend himself in a court of law! This defense is made complicated when it is revealed that he believes he is Ham - the cursed third son of Noah. This is a play about love, lust and family secrets revealed. Running until Jan 21 at the Theatre Centre.