Mary Testa set for Staged Reading of HOWLING HILDA June 16

Two time Tony nominated actress Mary Testa has been cast in a staged reading of award winning musical theater writer Anne Berlin, and Andrew Bleckner's new solo musical Howling Hilda to be directed by Valentina Fratti, former artistic director of the Miranda Theatre. Howling Hilda is free and open to the public and will sing out June 16th at 2pm at The Robert Moss Theater in Manhattan as part of the Planet Connections Theatre Festivity,

Howling Hilda, concerns the story of the Brooklyn Dodger's greatest fan, Hilda Chester. Set on the eve of the Brooklyn Dodgers' historic last season in New York, Hilda is being interviewed during the course of one game. Thwarted in her dream to play baseball, she spent a lifetime cheering. Hilda became an institution at Ebbets Field, notorious for her clanging cowbells, frying pan and iron ladle. Today she is in the Baseball Hall of Fame and there is an award given out in her name every year.

Following the reading is a wine reception in recognition of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. Former gal player Gene Visich of the Rockford Peaches will be on hand, a charter member of the league.

Howling Hilda premiered in the inaugural Planet Connections Theatre Festivity in 2009 where it was nominated for Outstanding Production of a Reading and Outstanding Performance of an Actress in a reading. Winner Outstanding Performance of an Actress in a Reading.

THE PLANET CONNECTIONS THEATRE FESTIVITY is New York's premiere eco-friendly/ socially-conscious theatre festival. Fostering a diverse cross-section of performances, the festival seeks to inspire artists and audiences both creatively and fundamentally, in a festive atmosphere. At the heart of the festivity are like-minded individuals striving to create professional, meaningful theatre, while supporting organizations, which give back to the community at large.

The Robert Moss Theatre 440 is located at 440 Lafayette St. between Astor Place and 4th St. and across the street from The Public Theater. Conveniently located near the N, R, W, and 6 trains. Reservations are required. For free tickets reserve online or by phone at http://www.planetconnections.org/ or by phone at 1-866-811-4111.

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