By Christopher Hampton Directed by Jiri Zizka
November 21 – December 23, 2001
A brilliant adaptation of Choderlos de Laclos’ famous novel, Les Liaisons Dangereuses is a sophisticated comedy about the satanic magnetism of two noble conspirators, a comedy of the highest theatrical kind – edged with danger, replete with pain, reminding us that lives can be ruined with the flick of a well-turned phrase. A poignant portrayal of the well-mannered decadence and sexual cynicism of the French aristocracy, Christopher Hampton has made a masterful stage adaptation of a conspiracy to corrupt a young girl barely out of the convent.
Since its original publication over two hundred years ago, Les Liaisons Dangereuses has provoked in its readers everything from shock and censorship to admiration. Christopher Hampton’s adaptation has won several awards including the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Drama and an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay -from his own play – for the film version.