The national tour of the scamming, scheming, double-crossing hit Broadway musical "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" is coming to Boston's Opera House from March 6 - 18. "Scoundrels" reunites David Yazbek (music and lyrics) with Tony Award winners Jack O'Brien (director) and Jerry Mitchell (choreography) -- the Tony nominated team behind "The Full Monty."

Based on the popular 1988 film comedy, "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" centers on two con men living on the French Riviera. First up is the suave, sophisticated Lawrence Jamseon, who makes his living by talking rich lovelies out of their cash. Then there's small-time crook Freddy Benson, who, more humbly, swindles women by waking their compassion with totally fabricated stories of his grandmother's failing health.

After meeting on a train, they unsuccessfully attempt to work together only to find that the French Riviera isn't big enough for the both of them. So they make a bet. The first one to swindle $50,000 from a young heiress triumphs while the other must leave town.

"Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" opened on Broadway in March of 2005 with a cast featuring John Lithgow, Leo Norbert Butz and Joanna Gleason. Clive Barnes of the New York Post called the show "One of the liveliest, funniest and best-performed musicals in years. Super smart and superior in every way." The original production was nominated for 11 Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

For tickets and information, visit the Opera House box office, call 617-931-2787 or visit www.BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com.

-- OnStage Boston

12/19/06