George Street Playhouse Announces Book Club Selections

Buoyed by the continued success of its eight-year-old program that began with their production of John Patrick Shanley's Doubt in 2007, George Street Playhouse is once again offering a special package for book clubs. This season, the Playhouse is offering two selections: Joe DiPietro's historical drama The Second Mrs. Wilson, onstage November 10-29, and Aaron Posner's tale of a young Jewish artist discovering himself and his talent, My Name is Asher Lev, on stage April 12 - May 1.

For the nominal price of $58, patrons receive a copy of the acting edition script of either play, a study guide, their theatre ticket, and the opportunity to have a member of the Playhouse staff speak at their book club. "This program is a wonderful way for the Playhouse to interact with the audience it serves," said George Street Playhouse Artistic Director David Saint, who has visited a number of book clubs. "I went to my first book club meeting eight years ago not knowing what to expect. What I found was a group of people passionate about reading, who in turn were fascinated by the difference between reading the words on the page and seeing them acted out on stage. I am so pleased to be able to offer this program this season with both The Second Mrs. Wilson and My Name is Asher Lev."

For further information, or to purchase the package, contact the George Street Playhouse Group Sales Department by phone at 732-846-2895, extension 134, or by email at jdulisse@georgestplayhouse.org. George Street Playhouse is located at 9 Livingston Avenue in the heart of New Brunswick's dining and entertainment district, easily accessible by public transportation (bus or train) or by car. For directions, parking tips and dining suggestions, visit the Playhouse website, www.GSPonline.org

About the productions:

The Second Mrs. Wilson
By Joe DiPietro
Directed by Gordon Edelstein

April 1915. President Woodrow Wilson has fallen in love and married his second wife, Edith. She quickly becomes a trusted confidant and advisor and an inconvenience to his circle of advisors. When he becomes debilitated by a stroke, she adeptly maneuvers around his cabinet and congress to advance his dream of world peace and the League of Nations. A fascinating vision of a little-known chapter of American history in which many believe a woman was de facto President of the United States.

My Name is Asher Lev
By Aaron Posner
Adapted from the novel by Chaim Potok
Directed by Jim Jack

Asher Lev is a young Jew growing up in post-war Brooklyn. His artistic talent is apparent at an early age, and, on the advice of the Rebbe, his talent is nutured and educated. Asher can't imagine being anything other than an artist and that innate drive - as well as his artistic vision - flies in the face of his family, his faith and tradition.