Two versions of Richard Brindsley Sheridan's 18th-century comedy of manners, The Rivals, will tread the boards in Los Angeles this fall, one at the Knightsbridge L.A. Theatre, the other at Interact Theatre Company's brand-new performance space in NoHo.

The latter production will be directed by John Rubinstein, who recently returned from co-starring with Donald Sutherland in Enigmatic Variations in Toronto and London. The opening is scheduled for Oct. 28 at 5215 Bakman Ave, with a run through Dec. 3. For tickets and information call (818) 773-7862.

Rubinstein co-directed the L.A. revival of Elmer Rice's Counsellor-At-Law for Interact, and also played the lead role. He is also a much-respected film and TV composer.

Knightsbridge's production of The Rivals opens Oct. 7 and runs through Nov. 19, with Christian Noble directing. Jason Cole plays the scalawag role of Captain Absolute, Karesa McElheny Mrs. Malaprop, and Robert Harlan Greene the blustery Sir Anthony Absolute. Knightsbridge L.A. Theatre is located at 1944 Riverside Drive in Silver Lake. For tickets and information call (626) 440-0821.

-- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent