The Magnet Theater of Trenton, NJ will present John van Druten's adaptation of Christopher Isherwood's "The Berlin Stories", I Am a Camera April 30-May 16. Magnet Theater founder Charles Hayman directs.

I Am a Camera, based on "The Berlin Stories," which then became the musical Cabaret, tells the story of people in a rooming house in 1930's Berlin. The action centers around Miss Sally Bowles, a confident young woman who sees her plans for life twisted and destroyed. Around her, the Jews of Berlin are also finding their existence changing. Standing outside their trials is the character of author Isherwood, the "camera" of the title, who is a dispassionate observer.

Camera's cast includes Fran Lawn (Christopher Isherwood), Shelly Gilbride (Sally Bowles), Penny Larsen (Fraulein Schneider), Barrie Creedon (Mrs. Watson Courtneidge), Dennis Smeltzer (Fritz Wendel), Jacqueline Ruggiero (Natalia Landauer) and Randy Lee Hartwig (Clive Mortimer).

Hayman, as well as helming the production, designed the set and lighting. Marie Miller designed the costumes.

In conjunction with Camera's subject, there will be "Why the Holocaust?" panel discussions following the May 1, 2, 8, 14 and 15 performances. Maud Dahme, a Holocaust survivor, will lead the panels May 1, 8 and 14. Tickets are $15-$12 and available by calling (609) 392-5589. The Magnet Theatre is located at 318 Elmer Street.

-- By Christine Ehren