By Adam Hetrick
27 Nov 2007

Manhattan's Blue Heron Theatre will be the new artistic sounding board for the not-for-profit Algonquin Theater Productions.

Founded in 2004, Algonquin Theater Productions presents reading and showcases of "production ready" works with the aim of successful transfers to Broadway, Off-Broadway, regional production, film and television. The company has acquired the lease of what was formerly the Blue Heron Theatre and renamed it the Algonquin Theater; they are set to invest roughly $100,000 in order to renovate the space in order to accommodate their needs.

Through a series of readings, Algonquin Theater Productions selects one new work out of ten possible candidates to be presented in a professional showcase for potential backers. The Algonquin Theater will provide the company with a home base for its endeavors, complete with rehearsal studios and two performances spaces – the 99-seat Kaufman and the 45-seat Parker; the latter will be made available for rental.

Works under consideration for upcoming production at the Algonquin Theater include Sessions, written by Al Tapper; Shel Silverstein's The Devil and Billy Markham; and Same Train, written by Levy Lee Simon.

Led by artistic director Tony Sportiello, Algonquin Theater Productions will also launch a children's theatre program, culling from the company's associated pool of actors, writers and directors.

Sportiello said in a statement, "Algonquin is committed to the idea of moving shows on to the next level, where writers, actors and directors can get paid for their work while keeping ticket prices affordable. Our further goal is to establish The Algonquin Theater as a neighborhood center for a full spectrum of theatrical activity, including professional productions showcasing leading industry talent, co-productions with regional and not-for-profit theatres, a thriving children’s theater program and classes in diverse areas of theater study. First and foremost, though, we will concentrate on moving great shows on to a higher professional level. With this magnificent space, we have nearly unlimited possibilities to accomplish this goal."

For further information visit www.algonquinproductions.org.