'The Misanthrope' Opens at New Rep on Jan.18

New Repertory Theatre is bringing the Belle Époque in France to the Arsenal Center for the Arts in Molière's delightful comedy, The Misanthrope.  This classic satire, told with Molière's signature wit, opens for the press on Friday, January 18, 2008 at 8PM and plays through February 10, 2007.

"In Molière's picture of French aristocracy, the atmosphere is frivolous, the morals are loose, the egos are larger-than-life and everyone is looking for love. Aghast and appalled by the current conventions of the hypocritical society that surrounds him, the self-righteous Alceste vows to speak with nothing but total honesty. Unfortunately, he is blinded by love and falls for the vain coquette Célimène, who embodies all that he despises. Despite his pleas to the contrary, Célimène continues to receive suitors, creating the perfect breeding ground for jealousy and gossip in Molière's intelligent and sharply written comedy, The Misanthrope," explain press notes.

The Misanthrope, by Molière, a New Version by Constance Congdon is directed by Adam Zahler.  The cast includes James Lloyd Reynolds, Amy Russ, Steven Barkhimer, Zillah Glory, William Anthony Meleady, Ellen Colton, Jason Bowen, Karl Baker Olson and Nathanael L. Shea.

The creative team includes Audra Avery (sets), Deb Sullivan (lighting), Rafael Jaen (costumes) and Matt Griffin (sound).

Performances begin Tuesday, January 15, 2008 at 7:30PM, Opening Night is Friday, January 18, 2008 at 8PM with performances through Sunday, February 10, 2008 at 2PM.

Tickets: Full Price $35-$55. Seniors $7 off full price tickets. Students $13. Call: 617-923-8487 or buy online at www.newrep.org. New Repertory Theatre, in residence at the Arsenal Center for the Arts (321 Arsenal Street, Watertown, MA)