Directed, hosted and produced by John Znidarsic, the evening begins at 6 PM. Admission is free.

The Nutcracker and I, which is described as "madcap musical comedy spoof of Tchaikovsky's classic," was conceived and written by Tony-honored lyricist Gerard Alessandrini (Forbidden Broadway) and Emmy winner Peter Brash with music by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky from the classic ballet.

The cast for the reading features Herndon Lackey, Amy Griffin, Haley Carlucci, Joseph Spitale, Charles Osborne and Benjamin Barham-Wiese.

The musical is described as such: "At a chaotic dress rehearsal for a local production of The Nutcracker Ballet, the young leading lady has an unfortunate accident with a growing Christmas tree -- breaking her leg. When the pain killers kick in, she's off on a wild adventure in 'Snow Globe City' with a life-sized Nutcracker and the Sugar Rush Fairy!"

The Bruno Walter Auditorium at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center is located at 111 Amsterdam Avenue and 65th Street.