Fantasy Theatre Factory Kicks Off Its Summer Play Reading Series With OLEANNA

Fantasy Theatre Factory is proud to introduce a new addition to its programming, the Summer Play Reading Series. The series will begin with a staged reading of "Oleanna" by David Mamet at the Sandrell Rivers Theater on July 13 and July 20 at 8 p.m. Gifted performers will showcase their talents in the classic two-character play that explores academic politics and the divisive nature of sexual harassment accusations.

More than 25 years since its first performance, the story remains relevant and shines a light on a salient topic in today's society. Oleanna observes the power struggle between a university professor and one of his female students, who accuses him of sexual exploitation and, by doing so, spoils his chances of being accorded tenure.

Directed by award-winning Rommel Arellan-Marinas, the three-act play will run for about 2 hours and contains mature content. Arellan-Marinas was the recipient of the National Award for Directing, Stage Directors and Choreographers Fellowship from the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. The reading of "Oleanna" is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., New York. It will star Benjamin Watson as John and Emma Merritt as Carol. Stage directions will be narrated by Madelin Marchant.

The play showcases the Summer Play Reading series' theme of power struggles faced by women, portraying the intertwining of power and gender. It also highlight FTF's move toward creating content for adults, in addition to children shows. The company's expansion of its play reading series, film series and music series is meant to target an older audience, increasing the reach of its mission to make arts programs accessible to more people of all cultures and backgrounds.

"In today's climate, we pride ourselves on including works in our season that highlight strong female leads," said Larry Fields, executive artistic director of FTF. "It is very different from the content we are used to, but we are excited to branch out and ensure access to the performing arts to people of all ages."

Tickets to all events can be reserved on FTF's website, www.ftfshows.com, or by calling the box office at (305) 284-8872.

About Fantasy Theatre Factory:

Fantasy Theatre Factory has served Florida since 1982 and, in addition to being the managing operator of the brand-new Sandrell Rivers Theater, also performs in rural and inner-city schools, theatres, parks, hospitals, community centers and more across the entire state of Florida. Fantasy Theatre Factory presents more than 450 Florida programs reaching over 150,000 people each year.

Fantasy Theatre Factory's mission is to make more quality theatre programs available to more people of all cultures and backgrounds. FTF also provides skilled circus performers for all types of events as well as theatre workshops for young audiences, both typical and individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities.

Fantasy Theatre Factory is headed by Executive Artistic Director, Larry Fields, who has served with the company since 2006. Fantasy Theatre Factory programs are award winning.

FTF has won the Miami-Dade Arts Educator of the Year Award, and the 2013 Excellence in Direct Service to Children Award from the Miami-Dade Children's Trust, among many others.