International City Theatre continues its 15th anniversary season with Joe Orton's famed black comedy Loot, which opens Sept. 1 in the newly refurbished Center Theatre for a three-week run. Jessica Kubzansky directs a cast that includes J. Todd Adams, Matt Gourley, John Jabaly, Molly Schaffer, Edmund L. Shaff and Tom Shelton.The Center Theatre has been completely refurbished to the tune of half a million dollars by the City of Long Beach, which is funding the effort out of its Parking Surcharge Fund, which was set up to assist with capital projects at the Performing Arts Center and the Convention Center. $1 out of each $7 parking fee charged for events at the centers goes directly into the fund. By opening night, Center Theatre will sport new carpets, seats, lighting and sound. A gala opening reception to celebrate the renovation takes place on Sept. 1, immediately prior to the performance of Loot.

Center Theatre is located at 300 E. Ocean Blvd. For tickets and information call (562) 436-4610.

-- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent