Open Bar Theatricals to Present First Round Fellowship Staged Reading July 6

Open Bar Theatricals, a new Manhattan-based theatre company, will present a reading of "Journeymen and Womyn (with a "y")," by Mike Wirsch, on Monday, July 6th at the Barrow Group Theatre. "Journeymen..." is the second installment in Open Bar's 2015 First Round Fellowship, a new program for young or established writers/directors/creators and their developmental works.

From 70 submissions, three pieces were chosen to receive rehearsal and performance space, technical support, and artistic guidance over a four-week period, culminating in a reading. In September, one of the three new plays will be chosen to receive a fully-staged workshop production. The first selection was James A. Tyler's "Dolphins and Sharks," which played to an enthusiastic full house in mid-June at Theatre Row.

Directed by Open Bar Theatricals' artistic director, EJ Marotta, "Journeymen and Womyn (with a "y")" will feature performances by Justin Ivan Brown, Colleen Gallagher, Grant Haralson, Michael W. Hyde, Andrew Hutcheson, Jason Long, Tom McVey, Devon A. A. Norris, Seth Ward Pyatt, Roslyn Seale, C Niambi Steele, and Rachel Valencich.

Mike Wirsch's new play is both absurdist and darkly comedic. Set within the realm of a fringe suicide cult, "Journeymen..." focuses on issues of faith, death, STD's, and permanent erections as the citizens of a post-apocalyptic community explore love, loss and the meaning of life.

Following the performance, there will be a talkback with the playwright and cast, as well as an open bar reception. Tickets are free, but reservations are required. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/d/local/journeymen/ to sign up or www.openbartheatricals.org for more information.