“Taking Sides,” the new play by Ronald Harwood opening at the Contemporary American Theater Company, is a drama based on a true story set in Berlin in 1946. The plot revolves around William Furtwangler, an idolized conductor of the 1930s and 1940s, who is accused of serving the Nazi regime, and an American, Maj. Steve Arnold, who is determined to find evidence that will convict Furtwangler.”Taking Sides is a back and forth, cat and mouse game between the conductor and the major. It leaves you with the question of whether you can really take sides,” said Kim Ryan who plays Emmi Straube, a German secretary to Maj. Ryan graduated from Ohio State in 1991 with a degree in acting. She has also appeared in “East Market Gardens” and “Shooting Stars.” David Ayers, assistant director, said the final few scenes of confrontation between the famous, arrogant composer and the American major are especially gripping.”It is a very exciting piece of theater,” said Ayers.Ayers, professor emeritus, worked at OSU from 1950-1989 in the theater department teaching acting, play writing and directing. He has been involved in CATCO for six years. Recent performances include acting in “Of Mice and Men” and directing “A Tuna Christmas.” Geoff Nelson, who plays Maj. Steve Arnold and is the play’s director, said “It (“Taking Sides”) shifts dramatically… it keeps you riveted and leaves you suspended.” Nelson received a master’s degree in art at OSU in 1982. Nelson founded CATCO 12 years ago and has recently directed “Of Mice and Men,” “The Birthday Party” and “Woman in Black.””Taking Sides” is dramatically entertaining with little bits of humor through it, Nelson said. CATCO will present “Taking Sides,” in its first post-Broadway production at the Riffe Center Studio One Theater, 77 S. High St., July 8. Ticket costs are between $23 and $26. Student discounts are available.Special tickets can be purchased for $7 for the July 8 performance at 7:30 p.m. and for $15 for the July 9 performance at 7:30 p.m. For tickets call the CATCO box office at (614) 461-0010.