A myth gets a modern makeover

Staged reading of “Avenging Arachne: A Nemesister Fable,” Wed., May 18, 7 p.m., The Olde Brick Theatre (126 W. Market St., Scranton). Free. Info: 570.344.3656 or SubverseAphrodesia.com

When you step into a theater to see the latest smash audiences are raving about and critics continue to praise, do you ever think about what it took to get to opening night? How long did it take to get from the pages of a script to a real, live performance filled with passionate actors, colorful sets and authentic costumes? It may never be something you think about, but for a playwright or a director of a brand-new show, it is priority one.

The Jason Miller Playwrights’ Project will present a free staged reading of local playwright Alicia Grega’s new production, “Avenging Arachne: A Nemesister Fable” Wednesday, May 18 at 7 p.m. at The Olde Brick Theatre in Scranton. The myth of Arachne, a gifted weaver turned into a spider by goddess Athena inspired the play, but Grega put a new twist on an old legend by setting the story in a modern world with modern worries and modern relationship issues.

Those attending the reading will be the first to hear “Avenging Arachne.” And because it isn’t a formal, finalized production, attendees are encouraged to share their thoughts and opinions with the production team. Director Sarah Stachura Regan has been working with Grega since the first draft was complete and is thrilled to take the next step in getting the play audience ready.

“The staged reading is a wonderful resource for the production process,” Stachura Regan explained. “However, it’s only a step in seeing the true finished product. What we do at the JMPP is present a staged reading to generate audience feedback and discussion. This discussion might inspire the author to edit and revise their finished product, so it may be more production-friendly or they may feel that their piece is perfect the way it is.

“Either way, the forum is great because we get to see a piece that hasn’t been produced anywhere else. That in itself is pretty exciting, I think.”

Stachura Regan said that the cast of “Avenging Arachne” is able to really get in tune with their characters.

“I would have to say it is definitely rewarding to be with such a diverse group of local actors who really want to see the characters come to life,” she said. “We’d be in rehearsal and would stop reading to discuss what we thought a particular character was really thinking, like we were gossiping about someone we knew. Everyone in the cast brings something great to the table.”

As rewarding as the experience is, there were trials and tribulations that had to be smoothed out along the way, which is what makes the staged reading so important as it gives the production team a chance to look at what works, what doesn’t and what needs to be perfected before it moves into full on production mode. Among the challenges Stachura Regan faced was getting the cast together for rehearsals.

“We managed it though!” she said, “Also I think trying to channel all my visions for what I wanted to see onstage was a little tough. A staged reading is not nearly as involved as a full-fledged production. What would be those ‘little extras’ that would draw the audience in? And what were the things that maybe would work for a full production, but would just be cumbersome and confusing in the staged reading format? I had to take the time to sort my thoughts out.”

Presenting the reading of “Avenging Arachne” is not only an accomplishment for Grega, Stachura Regan and the JMPP, but the community as a whole.

“There’s such a diverse, energetic theater community here,” Stachura Regan said. “So many people want to use their gifts to create a great show and great experience for the audience. What always blows me away is how hard people are willing to work, usually for little or no compensation.”