Broadway in Bryant Park," a free performance series that has become a midtown Manhattan tradition, continues July 25 with Broadway's cult couture as Hairspray and Mamma Mia! perform. The event began June 27 and runs to Aug. 15 during lunchtime on Thursdays.

Presented this year by radio station 106.7 LITE FM, the series features excerpts from current and upcoming Broadway and Off-Broadway musicals.

This year's participants — performing at the park from 12:30-2 PM — include:

 

• Lion King and Harlem Song - June 27
• Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables and Oklahoma! - July 11
• Beauty and the Beast, The Prince and the Pauper and Thoroughly Modern Millie - July 18
• Hairspray and Mamma Mia! - July 25
• Rent, The Donkey Show and Love, Janis - Aug 1
• Aida and a show TBD - Aug 8
  (Dance of the Vampires which previously held this slot will not be ready in time as rehearsals begin in mid-Aug.)
• Chicago, Cabaret and The Full Monty - Aug 15

* Also in the park, HBO's "Bryant Park Summer Film Festival" continues Monday nights through Aug. 19 at dusk (usually between 8-9 PM). The lawn opens at 5 PM for blankets and picnicking, but no plastic sheets, tarps or bicycles are permitted. Among the many classic films being presented are the series opener "On The Town" (seen June 17); Mel Brooks' "Young Frankenstein" (July 22); and the musical "Bye Bye Birdie" (Aug. 19).

Bryant Park, once avoided for attracting drunks, drug dealers and less savory characters, is one the great success stories in the city park system. Located behind the New York Public Library, at Sixth Avenue between 41st Street and 42nd Street, it boasts sculptures, a fountain, several restaurants, game tables, chairs, benches, food service kiosks and a rich variety of flora.

For information on all events at Bryant Park, or The Great Green Way, visit www.bryantpark.org.

The schedule is subject to change.