Tracy Kennedy

Barrington Stage Company will present a free virtual reading of The Supadupa Kid 2: Move, the action/superhero book by Pittsfield-based author Ty Allan Jackson. The reading will feature a cast of local youth and parents from the Berkshires and NY State Capital Region. Boyd will direct the reading, which will begin streaming free on December 3.

Reworking a classic story is not a new concept in the theatre world. Just ask the creators of Wicked or West Side Story. Taking something that audiences are already familiar with and turning it on its ear can be quite a task and is not without its challenges. First, there are the constant comparisons to the source material (or previous adaptations). Next, there is the daunting task to "reinvent" the plot and bring audiences on a fresh and new journey. But with the Alliance Theatre's premiere of Twist - an American Musical (a modern, American take on Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist) they beat the odds and have created a magical tapestry of music, story and life that, even with a classic tale at its heart, feels like a something completely new.

On September 1, 2010 The Alliance Theatre opened Twist for its Atlanta debut. Inspired by Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist, and in the rich musical tradition of Jelly's Last Jam, this heart-warming musical brings award-winning director/choreographer Debbie Allen (Fame) back to the Alliance, following her hugely successful Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (winner of the 2010 Olivier Award for Best Revival). The production runs through October 3, 2010. Check out the newly-released production photos below!