James Van Der Beek is following in the footsteps of his former "Dawson's Creek" co-star Katie Holmes with an upcoming role on stage.

The actor, who also starred in "Varsity Blues" and currently appears as himself in ABC's "Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23," will hit the boards in the American premiere of Joanna Murray-Smith's "The Gift" at the Geffen Playhouse.

Also read: Katie Holmes in 'Dead Accounts': What Did the Critics Think? [3]

Emmy Award-winning actress Kathy Baker ("Picket Fences") also will star in the play, directed by Maria Aitken. Opening night is set for Feb. 6, with previews beginning Jan. 29.

The play revolves around two couples who meet while vacationing at a resort and become fast friends. When one seemingly inconsequential event throws their lives into a tailspin, the couples find themselves wrestling with a moral dilemma.

Chris Mulkey and Jaime Ray Newman round out the cast.

"The Gift" was commissioned by Melbourne Theatre Company, where it received its world premiere. 

Murray-Smith's "The Female of the Species" was seen at the Geffen in 2010, with Annette Bening and Merritt Wever of "Nurse Jackie." It played to mixed reviews [4].

Van Der Beek will next be seen in the Paramount film "Labor Day," directed by Jason Reitman and also starring Kate Winslet.