Court drawn by actor’s ‘magnetism’

Press, 20 December 1986, Page 11

Court drawn by actor’s ‘magnetism’

A combination of animal magnetism and aristocratic refinement led the Court Theatre to ask the British actor, Michael Billington, to star in its next production. The actor, best known in New Zealand for his television appearances in “The Onedin Line” and the customs drama, “The Collectors,” will play Valmont in “Les Liaisons Dangereuses,” which will open on February 6.

The character is a French aristocrat whose main aims in life are the manipulation of others and the seduction of virtuous women.

The play, which won the Olivier award for the best play of 1986, is a stage version of a novel by Chanderos de Laclos.

The theatre’s director, Mr Elric Hooper, said the theatre had asked Michael Billington to take the part because of his stage record and his stage presence. “He is ideal for the part,” he said.

The actor has an impressive television record in Britain and the United States, in British theatre and in American films.

He will spend 10 weeks in New Zealand, five in rehearsal and five during the play’s run. He will arrive in Christchurch next year.

Other members of the cast of “Les Liaisons Dangereuses” are Sherrill Cooper, Elizabeth Moody, Judie Douglass, Geraldine Brophy, Michele Amas, Lloyd Edwards, and Ross Gumbley.