COSTA MESA, CA -- Mark Harelik, author of the oft-produced drama The Immigrant, stars as the title character in South Coast Rep's production of Moliere's Tartuffe opening Jan. 15, 1999 for a 1-month run through Feb. 14. Director David Chambers is using Richard Wilbur's adaptation of the French play, which began previews Jan. 8, 1999.

The cast includes Hope Alexander-Willis, Rene Augesen, Robert Patrick Benedict, Svetlana Efremova, David Fenner, Lynda Ferguson, Mark Harelik, Art Koustik, Hal Landon Jr., William Francis McGuire, Don Took and Tracy Rowe. Harelik, who plays Tartuffe, originated the role of Martin Merkheim in South Coast Rep's world premiere of Howard Korder's Search And Destroy.

The design team is Ralph Funicello (sets), Shigeru Yaji (costumes), Chris Parry (lights), BC Keller (sound) and Carol F. Doran (wigs). Julie Haber is stage manager.

Moliere (1622-1673) not only wrote Tartuffe but produced it at the theatre he managed and also appeared in the title role. At the time of the play's 1664 premiere his satirical thrusts at religion got him in trouble with the censors. The play was banned until Moliere persuaded the King to reconsider five years later.

Moliere's other notable works include The Misanthrope, Don Juan, The Miser and The Would-Be Gentleman. There will be a "Pay What You Will" performance on Jan. 16, 1999 at 2.30 PM. SCR is located at 655 Town Center Drive. Call (714) 708-5561.