Theatricum Seeks Readers for BONANICUM SEEDLINGS

It is, perhaps, an unexpected turn: a classical repertory company like The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum embracing new plays. But for the last nine years, Theatricum has made the commitment to nurture the unpublished, un-produced works of, yes, living playwrights. And the theater's new play program, "Botanicum Seedlings: A Development Series for Playwrights," is now on the lookout for individuals with a background in - or love of - the arts and literature who would like to join the group of artists at the core of the program.

"We're proud that Seedlings represents a vital part of Theatricum's activities," says Julie Retzlaff, active Topanga resident and Seedlings Literary Manager. "So it's very exciting that we're creating an opportunity for community members to become directly involved in what we do. Each year we receive innovative and moving works from writers all over the country, and our Reading Committee decides which plays and playwrights we support. At this point, we need a few dedicated people who want to gather to read and talk about new plays. Plus we'll share some good food and laughs, and hopefully get creatively inspired in the process!"

Initiated in 2002, Botanicum Seedlings produces public Spring Playreadings each June, and this November will bring back its popular Fall (short) Playreading Festival. Throughout the year, Seedlings also selects works to receive GreenReads, providing an unrehearsed, fresh look at scripts in various stages of development. The series is run by Theatricum Playwrights' Development Director Jennie Webb along with Retzlaff and company members who volunteer their time and talents.

The Seedlings Reading Committee meets once a month (most months) on Theatricum's grounds or at an alternate Topanga locale. During the meetings, Committee members discuss plays they've read and reviewed over the past month, then are cast in roles as the group reads a selected play aloud. Each Committee member must commit to reading 12-20 plays per calendar year. Scripts are available as hard copies and also electronically.

For more information about the series, including Submission Guidelines for playwrights, visit http://www.theatricum.com/seedlings.htm.  For more information about the Reading Committee, contact Julie or Jennie at seedlings@theatricum.com.

 

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