THIS SOUNDS INTERESTING...

I was never a big M*A*S*H* fan, but how could you not love Major "Hot Lips" Houlihan? Apparently, Loretta Switt, was an acting pupil at NYC's own GENE FRANKEL theater, which like so many of our small-medium sized theaters/cabarets (FEZ, THE CUTTING ROOM) are shutting down. Here's an entertaining way to buck that trend. If big shows like HIRSPRAY are closing, imagine how smaller venues are feeling the pinch.

We are proud to announce a special event to benefit the Gene FrankelTheatre on Bond Street in Manhattan:

An Evening with Loretta Swit Sunday, November 29, 2009 from 7-11 p.m.



The Gene Frankel Theatre is one of the most celebrated and legendary of the Off-Off-Broadway theatres in New York City. Gene founded his theatre in 1949 and moved to Bond Street in 1980.

The Gene Frankel Theatre is still very active with some of the most talented playwrights, actors and directors. Here they have a home with a full theatre space to return to.

In order to keep the dreams of these young playwrights, directors and actors alive and the legend of Frankel active in the forefront – we need your help. Without your help this legendary director/ teacher and his theatre will slip into obscurity - along with his accomplishments in the creation of Off-Off-Broadway and the practice of his techniques.

Award-winning actor, Loretta Swit, a protégée of Gene's, will be filling our evening with stories of her friend/mentor; Gene Frankel.

Whether performing on Broadway in "Same Time, Next Year" or on tour with “Shirley Valentine”--or in the musicals, “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” or “The Song of Singapore”--Loretta was always thrilled to have Gene in attendance. He never failed in his support and encouragement. Nor did she, participating in the summer seminars, sharing her experiences with the new wave of students.

With a relationship that embraced the roles of teacher, director, mentor, confidant and dear friend that spanned close to 40 years, there is a guaranteed treasure trove of memories for her to share with us!

“Those who have studied with Gene Frankel...as I have...know he is one of those rare few...a teacher who is devoted to his students, nurturing their talent and their courage as he magically ignites their imaginations.” Loretta Swit

There will be a reception with wine, hors d’oeuvres, music and dancing. We are prepared to have fun.

Admission is $30, payable at the door. Cash or checks only.

Please make your checks out to “The Gene Frankel Theatre”

If you cannot attend and would like to contribute please mail your checks to:
The Gene Frankel Theatre 24 Bond Street New York, NY 10012
Call 212-777-1767 for reservations (recommended)