Genesius Theatre Premieres Douglas Carter Beane’s New Play

The Genesius Theatre in Reading, Pennsylvania, is set to showcase a new play titled “The Behavior of Light”, written and directed by Douglas Carter Beane. This production marks Beane’s debut as artistic director at the theatre, where he first cultivated his passion for theatre in the 1970s. The performances are scheduled for December 18, 19, 20, 26, and 27, starting at 19:30, except for December 27, when the show will begin at 15:00.

Located at 135 N 10th Street, the Genesius Theatre offers free parking in a lot adjacent to the building, with an overflow lot also available. For tickets and additional details, interested attendees can visit the theatre’s website at www.genesiusdifference.org.

Beane describes “The Behavior of Light” as a “battle cry for art,” emphasizing the importance of transforming life’s frustrations into creative expression. The narrative unfolds in West Reading during 1972, centering on adult students in a night school art class. These students, primarily mill workers facing job uncertainties, are guided by their enthusiastic teacher, Caroline, who seeks to instill an appreciation for art amidst the skepticism of the school principal, Robert.

A unique element of the play is the character Teddy, a shy janitor grappling with schizoid personality disorder. Through witnessing the art classes, Teddy finds inspiration and begins to navigate the complexities of his world through artistic expression. The play juxtaposes the grey reality of the students’ lives with vibrant, imaginative scenarios that unfold through Teddy’s art.

The cast features seven local performers, whom Beane praises as “tremendous and inspiring.” They portray a diverse range of characters, including Teddy’s family members, fellow staff, art patrons, and fantastical figures from Teddy’s creative imagination, such as a frog ready for dissection and a dragon voiced by Joan Rivers.

“We aim to tell this story as freely and simply as possible,” Beane stated. “There is no New York City production of this play yet. We only have our heart, our experiences, and our instincts to guide us.”

The creative team includes Allen Moyer, a Tony-nominated Broadway set designer and Pennsylvania native, who recently joined the board of directors at Genesius Theatre. He collaborates with longtime set builder Brent Beckner to transform the stage into an inviting space for this celebration of art and community. Other notable team members are James Haggerty as assistant director, Bill Eschbach as stage manager, and Ellen Dash Walter as dramaturg.

The full cast includes James Haggerty as Teddy, Sarah Althen-Haggerty as Caroline, Jonathan Erkert as Robert, Becka-Anne Malanios as Helen, Daphnee McMaster as Rowena, Alvin Green-Lewis as T, and Abby Hannis as Gina.

In addition to the theatrical production, Genesius Theatre has partnered with the DoubleTree by Hilton Reading. Guests can make a reservation at Cheers American Bistro located in the hotel and enjoy a complimentary shuttle service to the theatre, along with free parking in the hotel’s garage.

In another cultural highlight, Dave Kline & the Mountain Folk Band have released a new bluegrass Christmas single titled “Bells”. This song is inspired by the artwork of rural Pennsylvania artist Jon Bond and is available on all digital platforms. The single is part of an annual collection of original Christmas music called “Holiday Fruitcake 6” and can be viewed on YouTube.

As Douglas Carter Beane returns to his roots at Genesius Theatre, “The Behavior of Light” promises to be a heartwarming exploration of the transformative power of art and community, making it a significant event for both local audiences and theatre enthusiasts alike.