What's Old is New Again, East Harlem Teen Acting Ensemble Presents the Classic Comedy, Lysistrata

The Drama Program of the Harbor Conservatory is pleased to present the Jr. Acting Company in a production of the Aristrophane's classic comedy, Lysistrata directed by Edwin Lee Gibson. Performances are on Thursday, June 2nd at 7:30 pm, Friday, June 3, at 7:30 pm, and Saturday, June 4th at 7:30 pm., in the Third Floor Theater located at One East 104th Street and Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. Admission is a suggested donation of $5. To reserve seats please call 212/427-2244 ext. 558.

East Harlem, NY (PRWEB) May 22, 2005 -- The Drama Program of the Harbor Conservatory is pleased to present the Jr. Acting Company in a production of the Aristrophane's classic comedy, Lysistrata directed by Edwin Lee Gibson. Performances are on Thursday, June 2nd at 7:30 pm, Friday, June 3, at 7:30 pm, and Saturday, June 4th at 7:30 pm., in the Third Floor Theater located at One East 104th Street and Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. Admission is a suggested donation of $5. To reserve seats please call 212/427-2244 ext. 558.

Aristophane's Lysistrata was first presented in 411 BC. The pointed feminist sympathies and antiwar sentiment of this ancient comedy still resonate strongly with modern audiences and is studied and performed today more than ever. Performed by the Jr. Acting Company, this production is set in the turbulent period of the 1970's a time of great social change and strong anti-war sentiments, and addresses the timeless predicament between men and women, love and war. With American armed forces stationed in Iraq, Lyistrata rings true for today's teens trying to make sense of themselves and the world awaiting them. "Lysistrata gives the Jr. Acting Company a deeper understanding of how ancient classics are timeless, and exposes them to a style of comedy rooted in spirited play, shrewed logic, raffish humor, timing and rhythm," explained Daphne Richards, Drama Program Director.

The Jr. Acting Company is the resident pre-professional acting company at Harbor Conservatory for the Performing Arts, a division of Boys & Girls Harbor. The company is composed of young actors ages 13-18 years old who have the professional aspiration, talent and discipline to work in the theatre. Students are asked to join the company through an audition and the induction standards set by the International Thespian Society. The Jr. Acting Company performs two plays each season: a substantial contemporary dramatic work and an original work. The works - both new and old - are a reflection of the struggles and achievements of our time. Specialized master classes are offered to company members, college preparation is given and professional recommendations with casting agencies, producers and directors are made when appropriate. Professional etiquette and commitment is expected and enforced.

Past productions include: The Final Show, DiComedies, Listening Skills, P.A.Z. (Public Announcement Zone) all created by the company and A Wishing Well written by Bertin Rowser and revised by Edwin Lee Gibson, A Raisin in the Sun and The Sign in Sidney Brusteins Window both by Lorraine Hansberry, The Odd Couple by Neil Simon, Zoo Story by Edward Albee and For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow isn't Enuf, by Nzotke Shange.

The Harbor Conservatory has a thirty-five year history of identifying talented children and teens and providing both introductory and pre-professional training in music, dance and drama. The Conservatory is a member of the Harlem Arts Alliance, is a recipient of a New York City Department of Cultural Affairs Challenge Grant in the category of "Careers in the Arts", and is a semi-finalist in 2002, 03, 04 Coming Up Taller Awards.

For more information regarding the Drama Program and Harbor Conservatory, please call Nina Olson - 212/427-2244 ext. 573 or visit us on line at www.harborconservatory.org

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