On June 20 and July 2 CanStage in Toronto will be holding public workshop presentations of writer-actor-pianist Richard Greenblatt's new work Letters From Lehrer. Greenblatt wrote and will perform the piece.

"Since the age of eight Richard Greenblatt has been fascinated and inspired by the work of the incomparable Tom Lehrer," according to CanStage, which commissioned the show. "His scorching, satirical song line-up includes 'Vatican Rag,' 'Poisoning Pigeons in the Park' and 'Smut.' Letters From Lehrer weaves Greenblatt's own dreams, artistic aspirations and political questions with Lehrer's life and songs."

CanStage will produce the world premiere of Letters From Lehrer Jan. 16-Feb. 25, 2006 at the Berkeley Street Theatre.

The new project is presented by arrangement with Cameron Mackintosh Ltd., and was commissioned and developed through the CanStage Play Development Program.

Composer-lyricist and performer Lehrer, 77, is known for his comedy albums and concert performances. His heyday was in the 1950s and '60s. Tomfoolery, a stage revue of his songs, has had a wide life around the world. Lehrer once said, "Life is like a sewer — what you get out of it depends on what you put into it."

The workshop presentations at Berkeley Street Theatre, 26 Berkeley Street, are free of charge, but to reserve seats, call (416) 368-3110.

Visit www.canstage.com.