BRUNSWICK — The Theater Project’s Professional Ensemble will present the award-winning “Circle Mirror Transformation” and the funny “Winter Cabaret” in its 2012 repertory season.

The shows will run on alternate evenings (and Sunday matinees) during January and February.

The opening production, Annie Baker’s “Circle Mirror Transformation,” is about four New Englanders with little in common who  sign up for a six-week community theater class led by a free-spirited teacher. Through a series of silly acting exercises and games, they make unexpected discoveries about themselves and each other.

The New York Times called “Circle Mirror Transformation” an “absorbing, unblinking and sharply funny play.” 

On the nights “Winter Cabaret” is performed, the theater is transformed to resemble a nightclub, where theatergoers are served sketch comedy, live music and desserts.

“Circle Mirror Transformation” and “Winter Cabaret” will be presented  from Jan. 20 through Feb. 19. For a full schedule of performances, visit www.theaterproject.com. All tickets are pay what you want with a suggested price of $18. Tickets are available online or by calling 729-8584. The Theater Project is at 14 School St.

Theater Project actors Al Miller, left, Wendy Poole and Michele Livermore Wigton perform in a previous “Winter Cabaret” sketch. The theater will present “Circle Mirror Transformation” and “Winter Cabaret” in repertory, beginning Jan. 20.