Shortly after its run off-Broadway at Theatre for a New City, Susan Mach's Monograms opens at the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble of PA, presenting its version through March 16.

Through the poetry of Hazel Hall, Monograms explores the life of this Portland native who was house-bound and in a wheelchair for most of her adult life. Hall filled her time with fine needlepointing, and monogramming for wealthy families in the city. Her poetry was published in Northwest papers and by Poetry magazine.

The play reveals the struggle Hall and her sister underwent while living in their mother's home (now on the National Registry of Historic Places), searching for acceptance of Hall's poetry and passion in their everyday lives.

The role of Hall will be played by BTE member Elizabeth Dowd. Guest actor Catherine Slusar will portray Hall's sister, Ruth. Tom Byrn makes his Mainstage directorial debut.

After the run in Bloomsburg, BTE will take Monograms to Wilkes- Barre for one performance on Mar. 18, at Wilkes University. For tickets or more information, please refer to the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble on Playbill On-Line.

By Blair Glaser