NYMF's Best of Fest Bash--with Morton, Butler, May and More--Held Feb. 27

The New York Musical Theatre Festival (NYMF), whose annual three-week celebration has premiered more than 70 new musicals in the past two years, will present a one-night-only benefit concert, The Best of Fest Bash, on Monday, February 27 at Dodger Stages (340 W. 50th St.). Showtime is 7 p.m.

Directed by Joe Calarco, The Best of Fest Bash will feature highlights from the diverse array of works the company has introduced, including the Off-Broadway hit Altar Boyz and the upcoming [Title of Show]. Toasting NYMF's contributions to the field, the benefit concert will include performances by Euan Morton, Kerry Butler, Sherrie Austin, Deven May, Karen Ziemba, Jeffry Denman, Curtis Holbrook, Ann Harada, Felicia Finley, the casts of Altar Boyz and [Title of Show], with special appearances by Jim Dale, Roger Rees and John Lloyd Young.

"We've seen such amazing growth happen in our first two years," said Kris Stewart, NYMF Founder and Executive Director. "What better way to celebrate our successes – and raise money for an even more wonderful year three — than by highlighting the writers and artists who have made up the NYMF community?"

"Hailed by The New York Times as the theatre industry's 'rookie of the year,' the Festival saw attendance build in 2005 by more than 25% from the previous year, and over half of last year's productions played to capacity houses for their entire runs. Sold-out houses and strong reviews have led to commercial productions of several festival shows, including Altar Boyz, Captain Louie, The Great American Trailer Park Musical and [Title of Show]," according to press notes.

NYMF recently opened the door for submissions to the 2006 Next Link Project, the series of new musicals that forms the core of the annual festival. Last year's festival included almost 20 additional productions invited from around the world; a series of panels and seminars featuring industry leaders; numerous readings, concerts, and cabaret performances; and an array of umbrella events co-presented with other musical theater organizations around the city. The 2006 Festival will run from September 10 through October 1.

Tickets for the extravaganza, which include a post-show party at Dodger Stages, are $150 and $200. The $200 tickets also include VIP seating and a 6 p.m. pre-show cocktail reception with some of the artists. Seating is limited, and tickets are now on sale at www.nymf.org or by calling 212-352-3101.

For more information, visit www.nymf.org