In support of community efforts to respond to COVID-19, Book-It Repertory Theatre is canceling its upcoming mainstage production of The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski, which was scheduled to run June 3 -June 26, 2020. This contemporary retelling of Hamlet, set on a dog breeding farm in the American Midwest, was the final piece in Book-It's 30th Anniversary Season, and the last directing project for Jane Jones in her position as the company's outgoing Artistic Director.
"Of course we're disappointed. Of course we are. But we all recognize and prioritize not only the safety of our artists, but our community as a whole, and we look forward to finding a slot for Sawtelle in a future season," says Jones. "We have a terrific team assembled, and while we've hit the pause button now, everyone is hopeful and excited for a future opportunity. We're ready to wait it out."
Incoming Artistic Director Gus Menary adds, "We're using this time of social distancing to continue developing the stories and conversations that will form our 2020-21 season. It is shaping up to be an exciting next chapter, and we look forward to sharing more information about what we have planned in the near future."
To address this cancellation, as well as the cancellation of Arts & Education touring shows Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut and Possum Magic, Book-It has launched a Restoration Campaign. Success of the campaign is imperative to keep the company financially healthy. To date, the company has raised $32,535 towards its $110,000 goal. For information on contributing to the Restoration Campaign, please contact Director of Development Jeannine Clarke at jeanninec@book-it.org.
Book-It also hopes to proceed with its rescheduled 30th Anniversary Gala on June 13 and plans to announce its 2020-21 season in April.
ABOUT BOOK-IT REPERTORY THEATRE
Book-It Repertory Theatre, a leader in the narrative theatre movement, was founded in 1990. Book-It is a non-profit organization with a dedication to great literature and quality theatre experiences employing simple, sensitive and imaginative production techniques, and inspiring its audiences to read.
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