Running over two weekends, March 20-21 and March 27-28, the 2009 festival showcases work created by PSU faculty, former faculty and former festival winners. The swiftly rehearsed staged readings are free and open to the public.

Works include the play with music Ecoute: Pieces of Reynaldo Hahn, conceived and performed by Dr. Norman Spivey and written by Dr. Susan Russell. Also on the bill is Richard Biever's The Red River Quilt, based on the book "The Cemetery Quilt."

The mini-musicals Preface by Adam Gwon, and Buzz & Budd, penned by Bruce Trinkley and Jason Charnkesky, delve into the subjects of same-sex marriage and relationships.

Also presented will be Unsung!, the cabaret of songs cut from Broadway musicals.

A benefit evening presentation of Preface, Buzz & Budd and Unsung! will be held March 28 at 8 PM. All proceeds from the performance will benefit the AIDS project of State College. The NU Musical Theatre Festival will be held at the Citizens Bank Theatre in downtown State College, PA. For further information, visit www.psunewmusicals.psu.edu.