‘Les Liaisons Dangereuses’ a story of sex, manipulation

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Two aristocrats use sex to get what they want — even if it ruins the lives of others.

Manipulation is all part of the game in Les Liaisons Dangereuses, a classic tale of sex, lies and betrayal.

“I think college kids will really like this,” said Holly junior Daniel Martin. “It’s a very entertaining show, it has a big cast, big set, big everything.”

Performances take place at 7:30 p.m. today through Saturday at Bush Theatre, with a 2 p.m. matinee Sunday.

The 18th-century play focuses on former lovers Vicomte de Valmont and the Marquise de Mertuil, who use others in a sexual conspiracy for revenge.

The aristocrats use sex as a weapon and target the married Madame de Tourvel and young Cécile de Volanges in a treacherous scheme, hoping to destroy their relationship.

During one scene, a character has nothing but a sheet on, said Shelby Township freshman Chris Burch.

“There’s some brief nudity, but nothing very explicit,” Burch said.

The show’s content sets it apart from other theater productions.

“It’s not raunchy, but tastefully done,” Martin said.

Martin plays Azolan, Valmont’s valet and right-hand man.

“There’s a lot of really intense scenes between Valmont and Tourvel,” Burch said. “When the actors are on stage together, they really disappear into their characters.”

Burch plays the head servant to the Marquise de Mertuil and obeys her every command.

“I’m hoping that the audiences do get shocked, not necessarily about the nudity, but about the situations they find themselves in,” Burch said. “I hope they see the real truth and honesty in it.”

Martin said the show is atypical and will leave viewers thinking.

Tickets are $5.50 for students and seniors and $7.50 for general public.