Reading Theater Project Announces PIPER'S PITCH

Building on its reputation for creating new and exciting theater that is relevant to the Berks County community, Reading Theater Project proudly announces its upcoming production, Piper's Pitch from September 28 to October 7, 2018 at the WCR Center for the Arts, 140 N. Fifth St., Reading, Pa.

Written and directed by Joel Richard Gori, with music composed by Chris Heslop, Reading Theater Project's new production will utilize the fable of the Pied Piper of Hamelin to explore our current social climate.

"A grown-up version of the classic tale of The Pied Piper of Hamelin was a perfect fit for the RTP season theme, Fact or Fiction?," said playwright and director Joel Gori, co-artistic director of the company. "In the original story, the Town Councilors are fraudulent to the young man who rids the town of their problems. In my retelling of the tale, nobody trusts anyone, similar to the current climate of our country: Who do we believe? Where do we put our trust? Who do we turn to when we lose faith in those who lead us? With music, movement, humorous songs, theatricality and poignancy, creating this piece has made me smile."

The cast is composed of regional actors: Ryan Cassidy, Kath Godwin, Vicki Haller Graff, Emily Hannon, Joel Lesher, Matt Mangus, Christopher David Roché and Jack Woods. In addition to Gori, Heslop and their cast, the production team includes: Jewell Brown (Assistant Stage Manager and Sound Designer), Craig Dodge (Lighting Designer and Technical Director), Kathie Kustudich (Props Designer), Amy Monizingo (Costume Designer), Andrew Pochan (Scenic Designer) and Sean Sassaman (Production Stage Manager). The production's band includes musicians Michael Evangelista (Bass), Jill Haley (Woodwinds) and Lars Potteiger (Piano).

"It is an exciting time here at RTP," said Roché, who serves as the company's Managing Director. "We have remained dedicated to our mission: working as a collective and creating new theater inspired by our region, and this production certainly exemplifies those efforts. From the playwright and composer to the production team and cast we have hired all local, professional theater artists who have an investment in our community. Without the support and investment of Berks County theatergoers, RTP couldn't take the creative risks it has and will continue to do."

Performances of Piper's Pitch take place at the WCR Center for the Arts, 140 N. Fifth St., Reading, Pa. Showtimes: Friday, September 27 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, September 28 at 8 p.m.; Sunday, September 29 2 p.m.; Friday, October 5 @ 8 p.m.; Saturday, October 6 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, October 7 at 2 p.m.

Ticket rates are: $20 adult tickets in advance ($25 at the door), $10 student discounts with industry and group rates available at info@readingtheaterproject.com. This production does contain some adult themes. Use discount code PIPERNEWS and receive $2 dollars off your adult ticket with advance purchases.

The Reading Theater Project is multigenerational collective of performing artists who create new theater in Reading, Pa. Since 2003, RTP has given local professional performing artists an artistic home, with opportunities for collaboration and development. For more information and ticket purchases please visit ReadingTheaterProject.com or call 484-706-9719.

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