Photo Flash: First Look at PlayMakers' PRIVE LIVES, Opening Tonight

PlayMakers Repertory Company kicks off the New Year with a sparkling comedy classic, "Private Lives" by Noel Coward, onstage today, Jan. 22-Feb. 9.

PlayMakers is the professional theater in residence at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Special events associated with the show begin Jan. 13.

Sparks fly when divorced, newly remarried lovers land in adjacent honeymoon suites one glorious evening on the Riviera igniting a timeless battle of the sexes. A comic masterpiece wrapped up in the epitome of 20th century glamour and whip-smart wit of the incomparable Noel Coward, "Private Lives" is sophisticated, urbane, and as hilariously catty as they come.

Coward, an English playwright, composer, director and actor, known for his wit, charm, and what Time Magazine called "a combination of cheek and chic, pose and poise" starred in the original 1930 production. He later wrote, "The critics described 'Private Lives' as 'gossamer, iridescent, and delightfully daring'. All of which connoted in the public mind cocktails, repartee and irreverent allusions to copulation."

PlayMakers performances will be in the Paul Green Theatre in UNC's Center for Dramatic Art on Country Club Road. Show times will be 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays and Saturday, Feb. 1.

Theater-goers can add to their enjoyment with special Café Society seating. For $20 in addition to the price of a Section A show ticket, a Café Society upgrade includes floor seating surrounding the stage next to the action, plus mocktails designed by The Crunkleton and appetizers and coffee from The Weathervane at Southern Season served 1930s style.

For a complete schedule, more information and to purchase tickets, call (919) 962-PLAY (7529) or visitwww.playmakersrep.org. Individual ticket prices start at $15. Tickets are also available as part of PlayMakers subscription packages.

Photos by Jon Gardiner