A provocative story of love, sex and a serial killer in 1990s Edmonton caps off the TheatreXtra season.

Unidentified Human Remains and the True Nature of Love by Canadian playwright Brad Fraser runs in the David Spinks Theatre from Mar. 4 to 6 at 8 p.m. nightly, with a matinee Mar. 6 at 2 p.m.

"Unidentified Human Remains and the True Nature of Love was first produced for the playRites Festival at Alberta Theatre Projects in 1989," says director Dr. Shelley Scott. "It has become a Canadian classic, with numerous productions across Canada, as well as in the U.S., Europe, and Japan. It was also produced as a film called Love and Human Remains."

This eerie play follows a group of young adults as they search for love and identity in an increasingly scary urban environment.

"These characters are looking for connection. They are trying to construct a sense of family and belonging that makes sense for them," says Scott. "While reviews have usually focused on the graphic sexuality and language in the play, and many find it shocking, I was attracted by the warm heart at the centre of the play."

The age of the characters is the same as the actors playing them.

"They share similar concerns and interests despite the fact the play was written 20 years ago," she says.

Another level of darkness emerges from the walls of the venue – the David Spinks Theatre.

"The theatre is a small, dark space that adds another layer of creepiness," she says. "The action surrounds the audience, from down on the floor to up on the catwalk."

Tickets are priced at $11 for regular admission and $7 student/senior at the University Box Office (403-329-2616), or weekdays between 12:30 and 3:30 p.m.