The classic comedy of manners, The School for Scandal, begins previews at the Stratford Festival in Ontario July 29 with Broadway and Canadian stage stars Brian Bedford (The Moliere Comedies) and Steven Sutcliffe (Ragtime) as Sir Peter Teazle and Joseph Surface, respectively.

The 18th-century comedy by Richard Brinsley Sheridan, about gossips and greed in the upper class, is directed by Stratford artistic director Richard Monette and designed by Ann Curtis (sets and costumes), Michael J. Whitfield (lighting) and Jim Neil (sound). Original music is by Louis Applebaum.

Official opening on the Festival Theatre stage is Aug. 10. Performances continue in repertory to Nov. 6.

The cast also includes Graham Abbey, James Blendick, Lally Cadeau, Donald Carrier, Melinda Deines, Pragna Desai, Keith Dinicol, Jacklyn Francis, John Gilbert, Michelle, Giroux, Roger Honeywell, Tim MacDonald, Florence MacGrgeor, Seana McKenna, Sarah Mennell, Jordan Pettle, Steve Ross and Brian Tree.

For information, call (800) 567-1600. -- By Kenneth Jones