The Cornell College Theatre Department Presents Les Liaisons Dangereuses

MOUNT VERNON – Cornell College will present a production of the acclaimed play Les Liaisons Dangereuses, by Christopher Hampton, based on the novel by Choderlos de Laclos. Directed by theatre professor Mark Hunter, Les Liaisons Dangereuses will run from October 17th to October 25th at the Kimmel Theater on the Cornell campus.

Tickets prices are $8 for adults and $5 for non-Cornell students. Cornell students, faculty, and staff are admitted without charge. Show times are at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17-18 and 24-25, and at 2 p.m. Oct. 19.

The play is set in the 18th century, among the French aristocracy. The story concerns the schemes and machinations of La Marquise de Merteuil and her former lover Le Vicomte de Valmont, as they work together and against each other, both to amuse themselves and to exact revenge for perceived past wrongs. The play is a delicious exercise in seduction and treachery – and the dangers inherent therein.

The play was originally produced in London in 1985 with Alan Rickman as Valmont, and received considerable critical commendation. It has been revived many times since, including as an award-winning film starring Glenn Close, John Malkovich, and Michelle Pfeiffer, and in a 2007 Broadway revival starring Academy Award nominee Laura Linney. The playwright, Christopher Hampton recently won a screen-writing Oscar for the 2007 film Atonement.

In the Cornell production La Marquise de Merteuil and Le Vicomte de Valmont are played by Sarah Levy and Alex Williams. Other cast members include Erin Daly as the virtuous Madame de Tourvel, the object of Valmont’s scheming, and Daniella Wallace as Cecile Volanges. The sumptuous costumes are designed by Jenny Kelchen. Scenic design is by Chicago artist Edward Matthew Walter, and lighting design is by Cornell Theatre professor Scott Olinger.

This play is intended for a mature audience. It has strong sexual themes and some nudity. Tickets can be purchased at the door or by calling the Cornell box office in advance at (319) 895-4293.