The Play Company and the Public Theatre have announced a benefit reading from "The Diaries of Kenneth Tynan" on Monday, Nov. 5 at 7:30 PM. Excerpts from the new book will be read in a rare New York Performance by actor Malcolm McDowell. The benefit will go towards the new not-for-profit Play Company. McDowell, whose film credits include "A Clockwork Orange" and "Star Trek: Generations" and theatre credits boast Look Back In Anger and In Celebration, will read from the book (being published that very day) which features a closer look at one of the most respected and feared critics of our time. A columnist for the London Observer, Tynan frequently contributed to the New Yorker, was an important figure at the Royal National Theatre under Olivier and started the Broadway musical Oh! Calcutta!. He was a central figure in the worlds of film and theatre.

Tickets for the reading are $150 and $25. The $150 ticket includes a cocktail reception following the reading with Mr. McDowell at Serafina. Tickets can be purchased through the Play Company by calling (212) 398 2977.

— Steve Luber