Robert Viagas, editor of the Playbill Books text—to be published by Applause Theatre & Cinema Books in November 2006—will moderate the discussion starting at 7:30 PM in the Kaufmann Concert Hall of the 92nd Street Y.

Playwrights Albee and McNally, actress Chalfant, director-producer Prince, and songwriting partners Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty are among the talents featured in "The Alchemy of Theatre—The Divine Science: Essays on Theatre and the Art of Collaboration." The book enlists more than two dozen theatrical professionals to share essays on their own real-world experiences.

Others who lend their thoughts to the book include directors Susan Stroman and George C. Wolfe, stars Chita Rivera and Brian Stokes Mitchell, producer Rocco Landesman, musical director Paul Gemignani, theatre operator Gerald Schoenfeld and designers Robin Wagner, William Ivey Long, Jules Fisher and Peggy Eisenhauer. The writings of late playwright Wendy Wasserstein and songwriter Cy Coleman are also featured in the book.

By focusing on "every theatrical field, from producing and writing to publicity and makeup," as a release states, "The Alchemy of Theatre" provides a first-hand look at the entire collaborative process.

Copies of "The Alchemy of Theatre" will be available for purchase with a book signing immediately following the panel. Tickets for the panel at The 92nd Street Y, located at 1395 Lexington Avenue (at 92 St.) in New York, NY, can be purchased by calling (212) 415-5500 or through the website. For more information, visit www.92y.org.