Directed by Richard Burk with musical direction by Barb Lee, the reading will boast the talents of Nick Wyman (Les Miserables, The Phantom of the Opera, Sly Fox), Erika Amato (Sleeping Beauty Wakes, Signs of Life) and Sarah Matteucci.

Mary the Magdalene features a book and lyrics by Shad Olsen and James Olm and a score by James Olm.

"A progressive woman's empowerment show," Mary the Magdalene-The Musical, press notes state, "follows the incredible uphill struggles of Mary Magdalene. Fighting patriarchy, prejudice, and violence, her journey takes her from a misunderstood, demon-possessed woman, to the leading, enlightened, number one disciple of Christ."

The new musical is scheduled for a summer 2011 production at the Theatre at St. Clements Church in Manhattan.

Angelo Fraboni Productions produces. Industry folk interested in attending the readings should e-mail [email protected].