The School for Scandal

Today, tabloids and television keep the public abreast of scandals. In 17th-century England, the theatre helped fill that role and dramatist William Brinsley Sheridan was a master of the genre. First produced in 1777, this brilliant play may be the most famous social comedy in the English language. Based upon the Stratford Festival of Canada production, it is re-staged by Brian Bedford who also stars as Sir Peter Teazle. Bedford's acting awards include Tony, Obie, New York Drama Desk and LA Drama Critics' Award.

Basketball: Las Vegas Showdown

Not all is cosy and warm this holiday season in Las Vegas, as four NCAA men's basketball teams will churn up the hardwood during what has become a December sports-lovers tradition. With ESPN providing the live television coverage, you can be sure the teams will try hard to run with UNLV's Rebels and turn this into a slam-dunk fest of the first order. The early show has Oregon taking on powerhouse Auburn, while the main event features UNLV defending itself at home against Cincinnati.

Best American Essays 2000

Every year a new acclaimed writer is chosen to guest edit a collection of the best essays written in American publications during the previous year. This year, the guest editor was Alan Lightman, author of the innovative novel 'Einstein's Dreams'. He'll be on hand along with series editor Robert Atwan and contributing essayists Cheryl Strayed and Andre Aciman to discuss their work and the nature of being an essayist.