The May readings kick off with Ethan Frome: An American Romance, which will be presented May 9 at 3 and 7:30 PM. Based on Edith Wharton's 1911 novella, Ethan Frome features a score by Adam Gwon and a book by Michael Ruby. The musical, according to the York's official website, "is the tale of a man cursed to endure a life of tragic circumstances because he chooses to submit to living within the perceived boundaries of American society." P. J. Barry's Kiss a Mad Dog is scheduled for a May 22 reading at 7:30 PM. The musical concerns "a temperamental star and her arrogant director [who] clash during rehearsals of a new play while the flu-bedded producer fires, rehires, umpires and plays God."

The May readings will conclude May 25 at 7:30 PM with Gone to Texas, which features a book by Steve Warren, music by Tom Masinter and lyrics by June Rachelson-Ospa. The musical seeks to answer the question, "What does it take to take a stand for freedom . . . even when one faces the ultimate conclusion?"

The York Theatre Company is located at Saint Peter's Theatre in Citigroup Center at 619 Lexington Avenue. Call (212) 935-5824, ext. 24 for reservations. Visit www.yorktheatre.org for more information.