Sedition and Revolution at the Public Library

"One man's founding father is another man's terrorist," says Readers Theatre Repertory director Mary McDonald-Lewis. "We're going to take a look at that in the bastion of free speech, our public library."< span>

On June 29, RTR presents "Fighting Words," a one-hour program including a performance by members of Portland Sacred Harp and a soloist, the poetry of Oregon poet Jane Knechtel, remarks by special guest Mark Twain, and a controversial adaptation of a famous American document entitled "A Declaration."

"We're in the midst of a war our founding fathers and mothers never could have imagined," says McDonald-Lewis, "and on the threshold of an historical election. What better time to challenge our interpretation of their intent?"

The performance will be a mix of past and present history and politics, with music from the late 1800s, poetry from the Civil War and World War I, a song from the Vietnam era, and a current setting of a 232 year old document.

"I created this performance because well beyond a fresh understanding of the foundations of this country, I'm worried about our future as a democracy," says McDonald-Lewis. "I want -- I need -- the citizens of this city to think deeply about the price they're willing to pay to preserve it."

The performing cast includes Marsha Allen, David Berkson, Bob Martin, Eleanor O'Brien and others. Songs will be sung by members of Portland Sacred Harp and Cristy Murray.

Show starts at 2PM, and runs about one hour, and admission is FREE.

Central Library, US Bank Room, 801 SW 10th Av., Portland, 97205

Performance is Sunday, June 29th, 2008

For Reservations: 503.295.4997; info@readerstheatrerep.org

Readers Theatre Repertory was founded in 2001 to tell "small stories with big ideas at their heart," tales that alternately amuse, confront, assuage and inspire. Using one-act plays as the text, the company focuses on intimate human relationships to explore universal themes. Through these stories and through educational outreach and affordable ticket prices, RTR is committed to developing, expanding and diversifying Portland’s theatrical audiences. The company’s mainstage season is at Blackfish Gallery in Portland's Pearl District.

If you'd like to read the article about RTR that was featured in the Oregonian, CLICK HERE

If you'd like to read the article about RTR that was featured in the Willamette Week, CLICK HERE