search articles:     from the issue of March 6, 2008         'Dirty Rotten Scoundrels' cons its way into Lied Center The national tour of the double-crossing hit Broadway musical, "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels," is coming to the Lied Center for Performing Arts for three shows, March 10-12. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Based on the popular 1988 film, "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" centers on two con men living on the French Riviera - the suave and sophisticated Lawrence Jameson, who makes his lavish living by talking rich ladies out of their money; and a small-time crook named Freddy Benson, who swindles women by waking their compassion with fabricated stories about his grandmother's failing health. After meeting on a train, they unsuccessfully attempt to work together only to find that this small French town isn't big enough for the two of them. So they make a bet - the first one to swindle $50,000 from a young heiress triumphs and the other must leave town. What follows are a series of schemes, masquerades, and double-crosses in which nothing may ever be exactly what it seems. "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" opened on Broadway in March 2005. The musical had its world premiere at San Diego's Old Globe Theatre in September 2004. "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" features the music and lyrics of David Yazbek ("The Full Monty") with direction by Philip McKinley, choreography by Vince Pesce, and a book by Jeffrey Lane. A pre-performance talk will be offered at 7 p.m., March 10-12, in the Lied Center's Steinhart Room. Seating is limited. Tickets for the performance are $60, $55 and $50. UNL students with a valid NCard, as well as youth age 18 and younger, may purchase tickets for half price. For more information go online to www.liedcenter.org or call 472-4747. GO TO: ISSUE OF MARCH 6 ARTS HEADLINES FOR MARCH 6 RETURNING GRADUATE American Life in Poetry 'Dirty Rotten Scoundrels' cons its way into Lied Center GRADUATE DISCUSSION 'Honeydripper' opens March 7 at the Ross Lied Center hosts March 15 performance of St. Matthew's Passion Sandhill crane special airs March 9 Sheldon hosts poetry contest on March 8 Symphonic Band to perform March 9 733107S38006X