Theatre Memphis Presents DANGEROUS LIAISONS, 10/12-28

Set within 18th century boudoirs and salons, costumed in hand-stitched, embroidered silk, displaying meticulously designed period wigs and artisan-inspired and custom-made furniture, the lush and wicked story of Dangerous Liaisons, written by Christopher Hampton, takes the Lohrey Stage at Theatre Memphis October 12 – 28, 2012. The story portrays French rivals who compete to use sex, humiliation and degradation to achieve their own personal gains through a series of schemes and deceit.

Director Jerry Chipman, a veteran Theatre Memphis director and performer, has taken the concept of this production to heart and sees a contemporary appeal despite the historical references and setting. " I find the play very cinematic with its 18 separate scenes spread out over a variety of settings. The primary focus, though, is the immediate game playing to bring down a virtuous, religious and faithful young wife. Others will be caught in the landslide of destruction … the more innocent, the greater the fall. Much like Revenge on the ABC television network," he says and smiles. Lead roles in the Theatre Memphis production are played by John Moore (Vicomte de Valmont) and Claire Hayner (Marquise de Merteuil) as the former lovers and partners in evil and Natalie Jones as virtuous wife, Présidente de Tourvel. The characters of Dangerous Liaisons have had an appeal through the years as well with a hit London production, two Broadway presentations and at least three Hollywood film versions based on a well-known French novel, Les Liaisons Dangereuses. Even more recently the new season of the popular TV show Smash will have a Valmont-like Hollywood star rehearsing a new Broadway musical known simply as Liaisons.

Theatre Memphis Executive Producer Debbie Litch thinks a show like Dangerous Liaisons is a perfect show to highlight the talents at Theatre Memphis. She says, "A production like this pushes the boundaries and allows our artistic excellence to shine. From the custom designed costumes to the technical artistry by our production staff, we have professional standards that will stand up to any production, anywhere." Litch is adamant that "artistic excellence" be a mantra for the entire staff and is confident that the productions at Theatre Memphis reflect that. "If we don't supply the product then we have nothing to sell. In this production the two lead female characters alone have 16 stunning gowns designed and built in the Theatre Memphis costume shop. That's a lot of silk," she laughs. "And the quality really shows."

Dangerous Liaisons, written by Christopher Hampton will be directed by Jerry Chipman at Theatre Memphis, 630 Perkins Ext, Memphis, Tenn. The show plays October 12 – 28, 2012, Thursdays @ 7:30pm, Fridays and Saturdays @ 8pm with matinees @ 2pm on Sundays.

Tickets are $23 adults, $15 students with valid ID. Call the box office at 901.682.8323 or go online: www.theatrememhis.org.

Theatre Memphis is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization located at 630 Perkins Extended (corner of Perkins Extended and Southern) and is a community theatre whose mission is to provide outstanding theatrical experiences to enrich the lives of our audiences and participants.

Theatre Memphis receives funding from ArtsMemphis and Tennessee Arts Commission.

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