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Guild opens with ‘Dangereuse’ flair
The Dayton Theatre Guild threw a costume party for the momentous season-opening production of “Les Liaisons Dangereuses,” Friday , Aug. 28, in its new home in the former Dayton Gym Club.
There was no dress code off stage for the drama by Christopher Hampton, which seems to be mostly about sex, sex and sex. Underneath, it’s really about power. Sex is a means to an end.
Directed by Greg Smith, it featured Ame Clase and Michael Boyd as former lovers and ongoing rivals in an escalating game that not even death will halt.
She portrayed La Marquis de Merteuil as a ruthless, clear-spoken woman with will and spine of steel. Even so, she could also deploy charm to further her causes.
Boyd played Viscount de Valmont far more gently, but just as effectively. A seducer of multiple women, he nevertheless retained a vulnerable heart. Or was that also just an act? In any event, he didn’t surrender even when seemingly conquered.
Others were drawn onto their beautifully dressed late 18th-century battlefield: Amy Brooks as Madame de Tourvel, a respectable and genuine woman who gave in, but proved memorable; Charity Farrell and David Sherman as Cecile and Danceny, innocents who acquired experience and an education; servants including Nicklaus Moberg as Valmont’s man Azolan; Wendi Williams as Cecile’s mother; Barbara Jorgensen as the kind but pragmatic Madame de Rosemonde, and Katrina Kittle as a fun-loving courtesan.
The two acts over three transporting hours were directed by Greg Smith, who also designed the women’s costumes. Blake Senseman did the sets.
It was a successful debut for the Guild’s new home, which has successfully been transformed into a theater, but remains a work in progress. Lighting was reduced to the basics — full up, or all off. All 130 seats were occupied.
“Liaisons Dangereuses” continues on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 13 at the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave. Tickets are $10-$18. Call (937) 278-5993 or make reservations online at www.daytontheatreguild.org.
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Comments
By Wendi
September 1, 2009 4:25 AM | Link to this
Terry, thanks for the fabulous write-up! We had such a great opening weekend, and we’re looking forward to six more packed shows! I did want to let you know that the link to the Guild’s website seems to be broken - and we want to make sure people can get those tickets! :o) Thanks again - we all appreciate the kind words!