Romulus Linney will speak at Venice Little Theatre and join in a reading of Clair de Lune

One of the most prolific and American of playwrights, Romulus Linney, will be in the Pinkerton Theatre at Venice Little Theatre on Saturday March 29, 2008 for a discussion of his life and work in the theatre. There will also be a Reader’s Theatre presentation of his short play, Clair de Lune. Linney will speak at 3:00 p.m. That will be followed by the reading, and a Q and A period. A reception in the theatre’s lobby will follow and the audience is invited to meet the artist at that time.

Linney is in town as an artist-in-residence at The Hermitage on Manasota Key. The Hermitage is a not-for-profit artist’s retreat and brings mid-career painters, sculptors, writers, playwrights, poets, composers and other artists from all over the world for extended stays on its eight and a half acre beachfront campus. Each artist is asked to contribute two services to the community during their stay.

Bruce Rodgers, Executive Director of the Hermitage will join Linney and VLT’s Artistic Director Murray Chase in a discussion of Linney’s work and will moderate the Q and A.

Rodgers says that "so far, Hermitage artists have touched over 5000 Sarasota County children and adults with their unique and inspiring programs. And this is another wonderful example of how that process works."

Chase and his actress wife, Lori Chase, will perform the reading of Clair de Lune.

Romulus Linney has, besides his plays, authored short stories and novels. He began his theatre career as an actor, a career which his daughter Laura continues (Laura Linney is currently being seen in HBO’s John Adams as Priscilla Adams.) Linney works include Holy Ghosts, A Lesson Before Dying, and Democracy.

Admission is free but reservations are recommended, as the discussion and reading will be held in the Pinkerton Theatre at VLT, which seats only 90. Reservations may be made either at the theatre’s box office, by calling 941-488-1115 or online at www.venicestage.com. Reservations will be accepted on a first come, first served basis.

Venice Little Theatre is located at 140 W. Tampa Ave on the island in Venice. The Box Office is open 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Saturday and opens one hour before all performances.