British farce is presented in CTA's Flexible Theatre beginning Oct. 20

Mishaps, hijinks and hilarity combine in the farce It Runs in the Family, set to stage at the Cornell Center for Theatre Arts Oct. 20-24 and 27-31. One surprise after another is in store for Dr. David Mortimer (played by Resident Professional Teaching Associate Jerry Bradley), left, and Police Sergeant (Michael Benn '03), center, and Dr. Hubert Bonney (RPTA Tim True) only contribute to the confusion. For tickets call 254-ARTS.

The Cornell Center for Theatre Arts (CTA) presents It Runs in the Family, the work of master farceur Ray Cooney, in the Class of '56 Flexible Theatre Oct. 20 at 8 p.m. Cooney's plays have had successful runs at many London West End theaters and other overseas venues. Some of his other well-known farces include Run for Your Wife, Funny Money and Out of Order.

Set in a British hospital, the play engages audience members as a desperately befuddled doctor intent on advancing his career creates chaos while trying to cover up an old affair and its startling punk-rock consequence.

"This is a classic British farce in the tradition of Fawlty Towers. One character creates a quagmire of lies that slowly engulfs everybody else," said director Stephen Cole, associate professor of acting and directing.

The cast for It Runs in the Family features the talents of Jerry Bradley and Tim True, two Resident Professional Teaching Associates new to the CTA stage this season. Ithaca actor Brian Russell also makes his debut in the play. Rounding out the cast are Jordan Rider '01, Nancy Kim '03, Melissa Mortazavi '01, Erin Espelie '01, Robby Marangall '03, Alan Rosenberg '01, Michael Benn '02 and Julia Ullman '03.

It Runs in the Family opens Oct. 20 at 8 p.m. Evening performances continue Oct. 21-24 and Oct. 27-30. Matinees are offered Oct. 24, 30 and 31 at 2 p.m. A post-performance discussion is scheduled for the audience and members of the cast and production team on Oct. 28.

For ticket information, visit the box office in the Center for Theatre Arts, 430 College Ave., between 12:30 and 5:30 p.m. weekdays, or call 254-ARTS (voice/tty).