AHMANON'S NEW SEASON

Another Music Center stalwart, Ahmanson Theatre, has also begun its 2005/06 season. Running presently is Sidney Kingsley's DEAD END, a classic American drama which had its world premiere in 1935. Nicholas Martin directs the third major revival of the play, which is set in Dead End Kids' New York City. Over 40 actors are featured, plus a towering 40-foot-high skyline and a dramatic simulation of the East River (the Ahmanson's orchestra pit will be filled with over 10,000 gallons of water).

November will see the West Coast premiere of THE DROWSY CHAPERONE, The new musical, a spoof of the lighthearted shows of the 1920s, has music by Greg Morrison, lyrics by Lisa Lambert, book by Bob Martin & Don McKellar. A recent Toronto production was hailed as "the best thing to happen to musical theatre in recent memory." After its run at the Ahmanson, the show will transfer to Broadway.

Oscar Wilde's THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST will be the first show of the new year, followed in April '06 by THE BLACK RIDER, based on the writings of Beat Generation hero William S. Burroughs, directed by Robert Wilson with music by Tom Waits. The play, which many consider the most anticipated cultural event of the season, has played to sold-out houses and rave reviews in London, Sydney and San Francisco.

Another new, TBA, pre-Broadway musical will fill the July-August slot. The Ahmanson's bonus options include Mathew Bourne's SWAN LAKE (March 8-19) and DAME EDNA, BACK WITH A VENGENACE (March 28-April 9). Dame Edna, created and performed by Barry Humphries, has sent word advising that her show "will make history." Joining her on stage will be The Gorgeous Ednaettes: "Scrumptious dancers in stunning costumes that the men folk will really appreciate if they can ever take their eyes off the DAME."

135 Grand Avenue. Call (213) 628-2772 or visit Taper/Ahmanson.com