Directed by Joe Brancato, the 7:30 PM reading features the talents of Daniel Beaty (Emergence-See!), Kecia Lewis-Evans (The Drowsy Chaperone) and Tom Frey (2 Pianos 4 Hands). William Foster McDaniel is the accompanist. Breath and Imagination: The Story of Roland Hayes features a book by Daniel Beaty. The musical, according to press notes, is described as such: "Before there was Marian Anderson, there was Roland Hayes – the first world-renowned African-American classical vocalist. Breath and Imagination is a play with music that chronicles the inspirational journey of how this pioneer started by singing spirituals in church and ended up singing before kings and queens in Europe."

The reading will be presented at the York's home at The Theatre at Saint Peter's on 54th Street, east of Lexington Avenue. Although the reading is free, reservations are required by emailing Jeff Landsman at [email protected] (include name, phone number, the show's title and the number of tickets) or by calling (212) 935-5824, ext. 24.

For more information visit www.yorktheatre.org.