The venerable old summer stock theatre is asking its many alumni to contact the playhouse staff to share stories and anecdotes of working in the old red converted barn, which is soon to be refurbished. The tales will become part of a 75th anniversary book to be published by Yale University Press in 2005. Joanne Woodward, the Playhouse's artistic director, said, "We have wonderful archives, both written and pictorial, but the resource we really need to tap is the memories of those who have worked here over the years. In particular, we need stories of things that really happened in and around the theatre. They can be funny or serious, weird or wonderful, historical or not. The only parameters we put on them are that they should be true, and that they should be as brief as possible (without spoiling the story)."

Alumni may submit one or more memories. Contributors may request anonymity.

Respondents should send their thoughts by Jan. 5, 2004, via mail or e-mail to Chance Farago, Playhouse marketing and communications manager, at Westport Country Playhouse, PO Box 629, Westport, CT 06881 or [email protected] For further information, call (203) 227-5137, ext 35.