Directed by Josh Rhodes, the 2:30 PM reading will feature musical direction by Geoffrey Kiorpes. Casting will be announced shortly.

Behind the Iron Mask features a score by John Robinson and a libretto by Roberto Trippini. The musical was first produced at London's Duchess Theatre in 2005. The book has since been revised and the score expanded.

GBM Productions hopes to mount a production in the U.S. in 2008.

Behind the Iron Mask, according to press notes, is described as such: "A prison fortress perched high on an island off the coast of southern France. In its tallest tower, a luxuriously-appointed cell. In it, a prisoner who wears an iron mask – by direct order of a despotic and capricious king. A mystery which has baffled historians to the present day. A legend, this double imprisonment, which has inspired countless writers. . . . an emotionally-charged piece of serious musical theatre on how the human heart can flourish in adversity, defy tyranny, face death and find love."

New World Stages is located in Manhattan at 340 West 50th Street. For tickets e-mail [email protected].