Pasadena Shakespeare Company ends its production of Stephen Jeffrey's The Libertine Aug. 8. Performances began July 2 with an official opening July 9.

A dark comedy, The Libertine explores the decadence and hypocrisy of 17th century England -- and, one gathers, modern times as well. Though The Libertine made waves at London's Royal Court Theatre, and a big splash at Chicago's Steppenwolf Theatre (where John Malkovich starred as Lord Rochester), an expected New York commercial and regional life for the drama never materialized.

Artistic director Gillian Bagwell directs the piece, which contains fairly graphic language and content. For tickets call (626) 564-8564.

In August and September 1999 PSC will serve up Pearls and Marlowe, based on Raymond Chandler's stories "Goldfish" and "Red Wind." Adapted by Robert G. Egan, the "theatre noir" piece will be directed by Dana Marley.

The '99 season will conclude with Shakespeare's The Merry Wives of Windsor, which features everyone's favorite rogue, Falstaff. Jane Macfie and Patrick Lawlor are the co-directors. PSC is located in suite 296 of the Plaza Pasadena Mall at 300 E. Colorado Blvd. Call (626) 564-8564.

-- By David Lefkowitz and Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent