On Oct. 17, New York Theatre Workshop will celebrate Community Day by reaching out to the surrounding area providing live theatrical events free of charge, including a preview of some of the songs for the upcoming Bright Lights Big City.

The Festivities for Community Day run 10 AM-5 PM and include readings, walking tours of the neighborhood, tours of NYTW's facilities, free food, raffle prizes and, of course, performances. In addition to the songs from the eagerly anticipated Bright Lights, playwrights Doug Wright (Quills) and Paul Rudnick (the upcoming The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told) will be on-hand for a group discussion.

Other performances include: excerpts from last season's Love's Fowl by Side Show composer Henry Kreiger (with Susan Vitucci) and a pay-what-you-can performance of Saratoga Institute's Culture of Desire (at 5 PM). Solo Performers Jonathan Ames, Emmett Foster, Deborah Swisher and Lisa Kron will also be on hand giving excerpts of past performances and previews of their latest work.

For the exact schedule of events or more information, call (212) 780 9037. New York Theatre Workshop is located on 79 East Fourth Street (between Bowery & 2nd Ave.).

-- By Sean McGrath