The nexStage Theatre will present a reading of David Harrower's "Blackbird," a study on sexual obsession, tomorrow night. The one-act play, commissioned for the Edinburgh International Festival in Scotland in 2005, is gripping and raw.
"It is amazing," said John Kane, the play's director and lead. "People should not be discouraged from seeing it. It's really enjoyable."
The play is the fourth play reading in the nexStage Theatre's play reading series, which includes seven to eight readings a year. The series has been conducted for over eight years.
"We try to do readings because we can't do as many productions as we like due to financial restrictions," Kane said. "The readings are fun and informal. They give actors a chance to do interesting plays they would never be exposed to."
"Blackbird" is about the basics of love between an older man and a young girl and the play begins when the girl seeks out the man 13 years later. It was performed on Broadway with Jeff Daniels, and film producer Jean Doumanian has expressed interest in making "Blackbird" a feature film.
"It is a provocative play," Kane said. "There are 'Lolita' overtones. Many regional theaters have been performing the play and actors really want to do it because the roles are so incredible."
The play will be presented by John Kane and Charlotte Hemmings. The one-act play will be performed on Thursday, March 19, at 6:30 p.m. It is a one-hour free reading and complimentary wine and cookies will be served. For details, call 720-3207.
Sabina Dana Plasse: splasse@mtexpress.com
