The Illusion, Tony Kushner's adaptation of Pierre Corneille, kicks off the 2000-2001 season for Atlanta's Actor's Express, beginning Sept. 14 for a run through Oct. 28. Opening night is set for Sept. 17. Actor's Express' new artistic director Wier Harman directs.

The Illusion, based on Corneille's 1636 story L'Illusion Comique, is a play within a play, as the king Pridament seeks to reconcile with his estranged and only son through the powers of the magician Alcandre. 17th-century author Corneille is best known for his 1637 work, The Cid. 20th-century author Kushner is best known for his Pulitzer Prize-winner Angels in America.

The Illusion marks Harman's first production with his new theatre. Long associated with Seattle's Annex Theatre, he is the veteran of over 60 productions including Shakespeare's Cymbeline, Great Men of Science, Nos. 21 & 22 and an original adaptation of Ingmar Bergman's Persona.

Theo Harness stars as the mysterious Alcandre with Maruice Ralston as Pridament. Also in the cast are Barbara Cole, Joel Rubin Ganz, Tara Tovarek, Justin Welborn, Jayson Smith and Randy Cholmia.

Desiging this Illusion are Alexander Dodge (sets), Bart McGeehon (props), Kristin Smith (costumes) and Judy Zanotti (lighting). Tickets are $25-$20 with preview tickets at $10 and the opening night gala at $65. For reservations, call (404) 607-SHOW.

-- By Christine Ehren