It’s modern-day New York and Puerto-Rican American childhood sweethearts Jackie (Haysam Kadri) and Veronica (CarmenAguirre) are in the midst of a profanity-laden lovers quarrel when a mysterious man’s hat appears in the apartment they share.

Jackie of course, is newly sober but still hot-headed as ever after emerging from jail to confront his drug-addicted lover who has a temper of her own. And that’s where the fun begins in Stephen Adly Guirgis’ The Motherfucker With the Hat.

Alberta Theatre Project's season-opening production, less controversially titled The Motherf---er With the Hat, isn’t for people who don’t like cursing and swearing. But those who don’t mind will love the production.

Shakespeare Company artistic director Haysam Kadri stars in the show and says he likes that ATP is leading with the cutting edge production, which he says is a thoughtful play that explores issues that many if not all people can relate to.

"This is departure from Shakespeare and England for sure," Kadri laughs, "but you know, there are a lot of similarities as well. These characters are extreme and extraordinary. And there are even parallels in the writing, too."

The production is fast-paced and the language has a different feel and rhythm, he adds.

"It really captures New York and it’s quite amazing. I read the script and immediately I laughed out loud and I was engaged 100 per cent of the time. It’s a play that I knew if the opportunity came up I’d jump at it. It is such a strong piece. The characters, the relationships and the idea that relationships are evolving as you become an adult."

Kadri says ATP is a daring theatre company that is forging ahead and he thinks audiences will appreciate the decision to run the show and will resonate with the characters and their relationships.

"Traditionally ATP does the edgier stuff and they stick their neck out and takes risks so it’s really nice they brought this show to life here."