FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 23, 2006

During February and March, Lantern Theater Company will offer a three-part Lecture Series focusing on the themes and dramaturgical background of the company's spring production of William Shakespeare's Richard III. This new initiative of Lantern Theater Company offers a salon-style setting for groups or individuals interested in enhancing their knowledge of this important classical work.

The Lantern Lecture Series is intended to offer a pre-show educational experience as a complement to the company's current symposia series, which features post-show discussions in association with the Lantern's productions. "Our audience is interested in exploring our plays more deeply," comments Literary Manager/Education Director Kathryn Nocero. "The symposia we've hosted over the last three seasons have been so lively and have led to great discussions between scholars, Lantern artists and audiences, that a Lecture Series seems a natural next step. This program presents audiences with an opportunity to learn more about Richard III and our production before they come see it at the Lantern."

Nocero and Lantern Theater Company Artistic Director Charles McMahon will lead the lecture series, which takes place at St. Stephen's Theater, home of Lantern Theater Company, at 10th and Ludlow Streets in Philadelphia.

Lantern Lecture Series Schedule
Shakespeare's Richard III

I. Tuesday, February 28, 2006 6:30pm
The Time is Out of Joint: Shakespeare's Staging of the War of the Roses. A look at the historical events and the bard's cycle of plays leading up to Richard III.

II. Tuesday, March 7, 2006 6:30pm
The Making of History: Shakespeare's Sources and the Debate Surrounding Richard's Character. Was Richard III a villain? A victim of history? Join the debate!

III. Sunday, March 12, 2006 4:30pm
Through a Glass Darkly: The Director's Vision for Lantern Theater Company's Production of Richard III. Join Artistic Director Charles McMahon for a preview of the ideas and images that will shape our production!

Lantern Lecture Series Ticket Prices:
Subscribers/Students: $25 for series, $10 individual session
General Admission: $40 for series, $15 individual session

The Lantern Lecture Series is currently open for registration by contacting Kathryn Nocero at 215.829.9002 or kmacmillan@lanterntheater.org. Advance registration is recommended as seating is limited.

Performances of Richard III begin on Friday, March 24, 2006 and run through Sunday, April 30, 2006 at St. Stephen's Theater, located at 10th and Ludlow Streets in Philadelphia. Tickets range in price from $14-$28 and are available now by visiting or calling the box office at 215.829.9002, or online at www.lanterntheater.org.