School for Lies by David Ives

Janus Theatre Company continues its 27th season with David Ives’ comedy The School for Lies at the Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division Street in downtown Elgin, August 15-31, 2025.

The School for Lies transforms Molière’s 17th-century classic The Misanthrope into a groovy satire written in witty couplets with physical comedy, creating a contemporary comedy of manners filled with contemporary slang – and a dance filled soundtrack.

In a world of gossip, glitz and scandal the story focuses on Frank, a man who despises hypocrisy and doesn’t mind telling everybody. Frank creates chaos in a world of ridiculous suitors and romantic ladies, launching insults and praise with equality while he competes against a team of admirers for his beloved Celimene.

As dishonesty and deceit continue to dominate the news, The School for Lies is as relevant as ever. And with David Ives’ piercing wit, this revealing satire is perfect summertime entertainment for audiences.

This production is part of this year’s Season of Outsiders – and features classic stories from the past brought to life for today’s audience. The production is sponsored in part by the City of Elgin and Elgin Cultural Arts Commission.

Running Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 2pm, Aug 15-31. No performance on Sunday, August 17. Additional performance on Thursday, August 28 at 8pm.

The School for Lies is produced and directed by Sean Hargadon, stage-managed by Elizabeth Dawson with costumes by Tiffany Jasinski, and choreographed by Jennifer Reeves Wilson.

The cast of Janus regulars features Aaron Hoge, Julie Bayer, Heidi Swarthout, Benedict Slabik II, Jennifer Reeves Wilson, Matt Johnson, Matt Hellyer along with newcomers Stephen Pickering, and Alexander Wisniewski.

Janus Theatre’s season is sponsored, in part, by the Elgin Cultural Arts Commission and the City of Elgin.

Host or Publisher Janus Theatre Company