Gary Slavin directs a cast that includes Joyce Carpatti, Matthew Boethin, Kate Konigisor and Elaine Carroll.

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"In 1927, in a small town near New Orleans, a beautiful 17 year-old debutante is diagnosed with a disease that threatens her life and the reputation of her wealthy family name," according to the author. "She is sent away by the family she loves, her name is changed, and she is forced to spend the rest of her life at a hospital called Springvale. The disease never materializes.

"Now, 70 years later, Matthew, a young Boston Globe reporter, has arrived at Springvale to interview Ruby for a human interest story he is writing on the subject of survival. Even today, after 70 years, and hardships and heartbreak beyond imagination, Ruby still maintains the glow and charm of a young debutante; the beauty is still visible.

"During the interviews, a young Ruby appears almost ghost-like and assists in relaying the stories of Ruby's life. As the questions get more and more painful and closer to the bone, Ruby is forced to remember the tragic details of her life..." The play is told in eight scenes over two acts and has a cast of four (one man, three women).

New Yorker Loftus wrote the book and lyrics for two musicals (Pollyanna and Abbey Victoria) in collaboration with composer Andrew Sussman. They were seen in Equity staged readings at the Lark Theatre in New York City in 2000 and 2002. His other plays include Driftwood, The Brother's Grin and After All.

His work has been performed by various theatre companies in New York, Maryland, Pennsylvania and California.

Reading presentations are 7 PM Dec. 1, 2 and 3 at Shetler Theatre, 244 W. 54th Street between Broadway and Eighth Avenue, 12th floor.

Seating is limited. For reservations, call (212) 517 3486.