'Flooded' and 'Molly Brown' at the Colorado New Play Summit

I had the pleasure of attending two of the readings ("Flooded and "The unsinkable Molly Brown") at the Colorado New Play Summit held at the DCTC from February 12th through the 14th. Since they were readings, I am unable to review them.

"Flooded", by Julie Marie Myatt" takes place during "one extreme year". It tells the story of William, an L.A. meteorologist who needs a change and takes a job with a national weather channel. Along the way we find out a little more about William and his family and the "episodes" he experiences. The reading lasted approximately 90 minutes with no intermission. I will say that this play is one to watch out for. I am hoping it is selected to be mounted as part of DCTC's next season.

The reading of the new adaptation of "The Unsinkable Molly Brown" had a special feel to it, especially for us Broadway fans, with Marc Kudisch playing JJ Brown for the reading and Ms. Marshall in attendance. Ms. Marshall also spoke to the audience and introduced Rosemarie Wilson (The widow of the composer of the original musical, MerEdith Wilson) who was also in attendance. The reading lasted approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes with a 10 minute break. Denver was a perfect place for this reading since the story takes place in Colorado and the Molly Brown House museum is located here. My understanding is that the Molly Brown House helped out with some research for this new adaptation. No information was given as to what is planned for this new adaptation but I did hear that there are plans for it. What they are, we will have to wait and see!

If you were unable to attend the Summit and are interested in the readings presented, scripts from past readings and current  productions from last year's readings can be purchased through the DCTC Box office. At this time scripts from 2006 through last year's Summit are available. Among those available are "Our House" by Thresa Rebeck (Mauritius), "Dusty and the Big Bad World" by Cusi Cram (Now playing at the Space Theatre) and "Lydia" by Octavio Solis (One of my favorites from the 2008 season).