Anthony Rapp to Direct Benefit Reading of BORN BLUE

RENT alum Anthony Rapp (RENT, YOU'RE A GOOD MAN CHARLIE BROWN) will collaborate on a one night only reading of BORN BLUE, a new musical written by Caren Tackett (RENT). Proceeds from the event will benefit New York City based not-for-profit Friends In Deed.

BORN BLUE takes place in a post-apocalyptic dive bar somewhere between life and death where lost souls drink the "Blue House Brew" whose purpose is not to intoxicate, but to flush away one's previous life experiences and prepare them for rebirth. The House band, "Creatrix" ('God'), speaks only the language of music, which they channel through soulful front-woman 'Infinity'.

"I was newly cast as a swing in RENT, and the urge to write overtook me. I holed myself up in our dressing room during the shows and wrote furiously. I'm not sure how other writers find their inspiration, but it's been my experience that sometimes it's the other way around; it finds you," says Tackett on the creation of BORN BLUE. "I am a person who has chosen to throw myself into my life experiences the hard way, and learn my lessons in retrospect. It's not just an exploration of the cycles of fear and prejudice regarding sex, race, sexual orientation and organized religion. It's also my own life experience told in metaphor and myth."

"Friends In Deed has had a long and wonderful relationship with Anthony Rapp, our good friend and board member, and we're thrilled that his upcoming reading of BORN BLUE will be a benefit for our organization," said Cynthia O'Neal.

Founded by Mike Nichols and Cynthia O'Neal in 1991, Friends In Deed -- The Crisis Center for Life-Threatening Illness -- has helped transform many thousands of lives through a wide array of free programs and services. The organization provides emotional and spiritual support for anyone diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, cancer and other life-threatening physical illnesses. Support is also available for family, friends, and caregivers of those who are ill, and anyone dealing with grief and bereavement. All services are free of charge. For more information, visit www.friendsindeed.org

BORN BLUE is being produced by Caren Tackett and Kurt Alger. Music, lyrics, book by Caren Tackett. Directed by Anthony Rapp. One night only Monday 26 April 2010. Complete casting, venue, and ticketing details will be announced on 12 March 2010. Tickets go on sale 15 March 2010.