Chicago's About Face Theatre will kick off their 1999-2000 season with Dancer from the Dance, based on the disco-era novel by Andrew Holleran and adapted for the stage by Eric Rosen, beginning previews Sept. 23 for a Sept. 27 opening.

Dancer tells of Anthony Mallone's fall from grace resulting from his erotic quest for love and beauty, guided by Sutherland -- one of the most celebrated figures in gay literature.

Rosen, co-artistic director for About Face, will direct the production featuring a cast including: Jeff Buelterman, Brian Goodman, Timothy Hendrickson, Nathan Rankin, Michael Gotch, Bruch Reed, Patricia Kane, Scott Duff, Steve Futterman, Nathan Hilding, and Anthony Willis, Jr.

Founded in 1985, About Face is dedicated to the creation of performances that participate in the development of the gay, lesbian, and bisexual communities.

For more information call (773) 549-7943. -- By Sean McGrath