Ithaca College

Ithaca College Theatre will open its 2004-5 season with Christopher Hampton's Les Liaisons Dangereuses.

This tale of seduction, intrigue, and betrayal has inspired several film versions, including Dangerous Liaisons, set in the original story's 18th-century France; and Cruel Intentions, set in a contemporary Northeastern prep school.

DirectorArno Selco's Ithaca College production, however, will take place in New York City's Studio 54 in the late 1970s.

Performances will be held at 8:00 p.m. on October 5, 7-9, and 19-23. There will be 2:00 p.m. matinees on October 10 and 23. All performances will take place in the Clark Theatre in Dillingham Center.

Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office in Dillingham Center, the Clinton House Ticket Center, and Cornell University's Willard Straight Hall. Ticket prices range from $4.50 to $10.00. The Dillingham ticket office will be open for single-ticket sales Monday through Friday, noon to 5:00 p.m., beginning September 27. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more by calling 274-3796. For information, call 607-274-3224 or visit Productions.

Professor of theater arts Arno Selco has spent the last 21 years teaching acting, directing, and musical theater performance as well as directing productions in the College's Department of Theatre Arts. He has received numerous honors from the College, including a Dana Fellowship for excellence in teaching and a President's Faculty Opportunity Award for achievement and service. In addition, he was awarded the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Gold Medallion for Excellence for his service to the American College Theater Festival.

The Les Liaisons Dangereuses cast includes John Bell '05 as Valmont, Kimberlee Walker '05 as Merteuil, and Liz Preistley '06 as Cecile. The artistic design team includes scenic designer Harmonie Stark '05, costume designer Hollie Nadel '06, and lighting designer Owen Walz '05.

Contributed by Renee Marsella