Festival of New Works showcases writers

The Festival of New Works began on Friday, May 21st with the Showcase for dramatic writing.

It kicked off with "Rock Garden," a screenplay by Beth Winsten, which was performed at the Frieze Building's Trueblood Theater.

Guest keynote speaker, Michael Weller - who has written over 40 plays and films, including "Hair" and "Ragtime" for Milos Forman - discussed writing and his passion for "great art that pushed beyond what can be said."

Frank Gagliano, the artistic director of the Festival of New Works, said in a recent interview with the Michigan Daily that "What is most important about screenplays is that it is new, it's here and it is on it's way to become something."

Gagliano went on to mention that many screenplays eventually go on to become films. What is unusual about these particular screenplays is that the writer is always present, enabling a greater sense of the whole play.

The approach to performing the screenplay is minimalist. The stage is decorated with only a few lights and stools, but for the most part it's a writer's interaction with his/her script.

Throughout the play's development the actors hold the script and, says Gagliano, "there are often last minute changes that will take place."

Next on the schedule for the Festival of New Works is "Hearts," by Willy Holtzman. Holtzman writes for both HBO and for off-Broadway productions. "Hearts" starts on June 4th, and continues through June 6th.

University alum and Nobel prize winning writer Arthur Miller ("Death of a Salesman," "The Crucible") will be in Ann Arbor on June 4th a part of the festivities. The Arthur Miller Award will be given for Dramatic Writing, and the recipient will be announced at the ceremony.

On June 18th,19th and 20th, the musical "Summer of '42" will be performed. "Summer of '42" is directed by Brent Wagner, and the music lyrics were written by David Kirshenbaum. The new musical is based on the Herman Raucher's classic hit film "Summer of '42."

The Festival of New Works is a wonderful environment for individuals who love new and interesting approaches to artistic expression. For those of who thrive on never before seen theater, as well as the opportunity to interact with great writers, Gaglian says the Festival of New Works "is what is happening right now and the cutting edge on how to deal with screenplays."

05-24-99