Shakespeare, Shaw, Chekhov and a classic American farce are the plays Theatricum Botanicum will be doing in 1999. A new seasonal addition in the outdoor Will Geer ampitheatre is American Stories: A Living History Series With Music, the theatre's popular tribute to a longtime friend, legendary folk singer, Woody Gurthrie.

Shakespeare's The Merry Wives of Windsor will kick off the new season on Sunday, June 6, directed by Ellen Geer. Shaw's Saint Joan follows July 4, starring Melora Marshall in the title role.

Award-winning director Heidi Helen Davis (The Glass Menagerie, A Streetcar Named Desire and Lettice & Lovage) returns July 31 with her production of The Seagull. Charley's Aunt, Brandon Thomas' much-loved period comedy, will be presented Aug. 16. Geer directs again.

The Botanicum's season will close Oct. 17.

The theatre is located at 1419 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd. Call (310) 455-3723. For season subscriptions and group sales, (310) 455-2322. -- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent