Presented as a benefit for the Unusual Suspects Theatre Company, the 7 PM reading boasts Hector Elizondo ("Chicago Hope"), Bruce Greenwood ("Star Trek"), Sam Jaeger ("Parenthood"), Roma Maffia ("Nip/Tuck") and Wayne Wilderson ("Private Practice"). Members of the Unusual Suspects Youth program also take part in the reading.

Hard Times, according to the Unusual Suspects, "follows the story of Sammie and Bobby, two cousins searching for a better life by entering a local talent show. They hope that winning the contest’s cash prize will help support their families and their dreams of becoming professional rappers. However, they encounter deception along the way from Sammie’s grandfather, Ford, who threatens to derails their plans."

The Unusual Suspects provides a mentoring program for underserved youth within the juvenile justice system, foster care, gangs, treatment centers and high-risk neighborhoods.

Tickets, priced $50, are available by phoning (800) 838-3006 or by visiting BrownPaperTickets. The reading is presented at the Mount Hollywood Church, 4607 Prospect Ave., Los Angeles, CA.