The free reading is scheduled to begin at 6 PM at the Manhattan venue. Subtitled "Theatre Production for Novices," the paperback tome — described as a "reader friendly handbook for anyone producing a play or musical" — is now in stores. In the 176-page book Lane covers these production fundamentals: selecting a show, finding a theatre space, putting together the creative team, holding auditions and making casting decisions, scheduling rehearsals, promoting the show and handling the elements of bringing a show from page to stage.

Stewart F. Lane's producing credits include more than 20 Broadway shows as well as plays in London and Ireland and around the U.S. His Tonys were for Thoroughly Modern Millie, The Will Rogers Follies and La Cage aux Folles. Lane is the co-owner and operator of New York's Palace Theatre; he also penned the plays In the Wings and If It Was Easy. Visit www.mrbroadway.com for more information.

The Drama Book Shop is located in Manhattan at 250 West 40th Street; call (212) 944-0595 for additional information.