The Oscar Wilde-inspired show already played a limited run at the Abingdon Theatre in New York City in February 2003, and was featured in concert at the Teatr Rozrywki in Chorzow, Poland (October 2000) and with the Utah Valley Symphony in Provo, UT (April 2003).

Canterville Ghost is based on the Wilde novella of the same name. Set in the 1920s, "it is the tale of a young American family moving into a medieval English manor haunted by a fine and respectable ghost of the grand tradition; an expert performer and master of his craft," according to the reading announcement. "Unfortunately for the ghost, modern American sensibility leaves little room for such nonsense as haunting."

The story "maintains the subtle wit and dry humor of the Wilde original, while adding a musical score with more than 20 original songs," according to the creative team. "It plays liberally with American and British customs, politics, and aged-old stereotypes, lampooning both countries to riotous effect."

Producer Kevin Monk is seeking producing partners, and is aiming for a Broadway production.

The reading cast includes Alan Souza and Robyn Lee as, respectively, Sir Simon de Canterville and Virginia Otis, with Kevin Carter, Michael Coco, Jedidiah Cohen, Todd Alan Crain, Jeff Harris, Benjamin Howes, Scott Marshal, Elizabeth Nicholas and Johanna Pinzler. Dominick Amendum will serve as music director and accompanist for the reading.

The reading of Canterville Ghost is open to industry professionals only and will be presented at the Manhattan Theatre Club Creative Center, 311 W. 43rd Street, 8th Floor, Studio 1, 7:30 PM June 9. For reservations or information, email [email protected] or visit cantervilleghost.com.

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Director Cronin is behind the aborning new musical projects, Gemini, the Musical, based on the Albert Innaurato play, and From This Day Forward, a conceptual revue of songs by Stephen Schwartz.