Beloved for its affirmation of love, friendship and the power of a well-developed sense of humor, “Cyrano” will light up Portland Center Stage beginning April 10.

Directed by Jane Jones, “Cyrano” is a new take on French poet and dramatist Edmond Rostand’s 1897 “Cyrano de Bergerac,” set in 17th century France. Cyrano is a skilled swordsman and poet whose long, bulbous nose makes him believe no woman could ever love him — until an urgent message from his cousin, Roxane, leads him to believe she may be in love with him.

Unfortunately for Cyrano, Roxane is in love with Christian de Neuvillette, and wants Cyrano to play matchmaker.

Cyrano puts his own heartache aside and uses his poetic finesse to help de Neuvillette write love letters to Roxane and win her heart.

Swordplay and wordplay ensue, and despite his nose, Cyrano whittles the tragic love triangle into a twosome.

Born in 1868, Rostand always knew he wanted to be a writer. After receiving his law degree in Paris, as most wealthy young men of his time did, Rostand began writing plays.

“Cyrano de Bergerac” was first produced in Paris in 1897. The American premiere opened a year later at the Garden Theater in New York City.

Director Jones has performed, adapted, and directed works by writers such as Charles Dickens, Frank O’Connor and Jane Austen. For PCS, Jones has directed “Pride and Prejudice” and “Twelfth Night,” which won Portland’s Drammy award for Best Direction and Production in 2008. Jones also received a Women’s University Club of Seattle Brava Award in 2009 and a 2010 Women of Influence award from Puget Sound Business Journal.

She’s now taking on Rostand’s “Cyrano,” which has been compared to the best of Sophocles, Shakespeare and Molière.

Even though most of Rostand’s plays are considered tragedies, “Cyrano” leaves the audience feeling inspired and happy in a way many comedies can’t.

“Cyrano” opens at Portland Center Stage April 10 and runs through May 3. Tickets range from $36-$69 with discounts for groups, those under 25 and students. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.pcs.org or call 503-445-3794.

“Cyrano” is recommended for ages ten and older. Children under six are not permitted at any PCS production.

— Reporter: 541-383-0350, kmccool@bendbulletin.com