Playreadings in Palm Beach

Kevin D. Thompson of the Palm Beach Post discusses some of the play readings going on around Palm Beach in the next few weeks:

In a tight economy, the competition to get a new play produced is tougher than ever. That's why play readings are becoming more crucial.

For the third consecutive year, (Florida Stage) will host the "1st Stage New Works Festival," a play-reading extravaganza that includes an opening reception, a panel discussion, six play readings and a keynote address at 6 p.m. Tuesday from Israel Horovitz, a veteran playwright who has written more than 70 plays.

The festival begins Sunday night with a one-hour opening reception. Play readings are scheduled for Monday and Tuesday.

But wait, there's more:

Caldwell Theatre Company: The company's 'Third Annual Storytelling Series' debuted Feb. 2. For more information, call (561) 241-7432 or visit caldwelltheatre.com.

The Maltz Jupiter Theatre: 'The Emerging Artists in Musical Theatre Playwrighting Series' nurtures the creation, development and recognition of new musical theater at the Maltz. The first two selections were Academy in October 2008 and Wonderland in December 2008. The final two readings, still to be announced, will be on March 30 and April 15. For more information call (561) 575-2223 or visit www.jupitertheatre.org.

Palm Beach Dramaworks: The company will present readings of Mark St. Germain's Freud's Last Session on March 30 and 31. For more information, call (561) 514-4042 or visit www.palmbeachdramaworks.org.