International City Theatre will celebrate its 15th anniversary in the year 2000 with a five-play season at the Center Theatre, up from four in 1999. In addition, seating capacity will be nearly doubled, from 190 to 349. The new season will include Noises Off by Michael Frayn; Beguiled Again, featuring the music and lyrics of Rodgers and Hart (West Coast premiere); The Deal by Matthew Witten; Bed and Sofa by Polly Pen and Laurence Klavan (West Coast premiere); and Loot by Joe Orton.

Also in 2000, ICT will institute a traveling children's theatre program that will tour Southland elementary schools. During the summer months, an eight- week youth program will train children ages 6-13. New executive offices in the World Trade Center and business offices at 100 Long Beach Boulevard allow for proximity to the Center Theatre and make room for additional staff positions.

"This marks a big step up for ICT," said artistic director Shashin Desai. "It is my intention to introduce an annual New Plays Festival by the year 2004, and to turn ICT into a major regional theatre representing Long Beach."

Center Theatre is located in the Long Beach Performing Arts Center at 300 E. Ocean Blvd. For tickets and information call (562) 938-4128.

-- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent