Are You Up for Grosse Pointe Theatre’s Reading Challenge?

Grosse Pointe Theatre (GPT) has been producing exceptional community theatre productions for 66 years. The Theatre’s next production – the touching and entertaining classic 84 Charing Cross Road – runs from November 10-23 at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial’s Fries Auditorium.

But for the first time in its 66-year history, the Theatre is challenging members of our community to “Read and See.” We want you to read the book by the same name, then come and witness it brought to life by the talented cast assembled by Director Ron Bernas, a resident of Grosse Pointe Woods. GPT is partnering with Barnes & Noble bookstore at Pointe Plaza (Mack and Moross), where you can purchase the book and receive an 84 Charing Cross Road bookmark. Bring this bookmark to the GPT offices at 315 Fisher Road and receive $4 off the price of each ticket you purchase to see the play.

For those unfamiliar with the book or play, 84 Charing Cross Road is based on the true story of New York-based writer Helene Hanff, who had a love of books. In 1949 she began what would become frequent and heartfelt correspondence with an antiquarian bookstore in London at the address of 84 Charing Cross Road. The book by this name was penned by Hanff, who is played by Harper Woods resident and longtime GPT member Elizabeth Perkin Moen. Frank Doel, who managed the bookstore in London, is played by Peter Di Sante, also a longtime member and a resident of St. Clair Shores.

Don’t miss out on such a unique opportunity to read this book – many already have as part of literature classes in high school or college – and then see it played out in front of your very eyes in the beautiful setting of the Fries Auditorium. This is also an excellent opportunity for English or Literature teachers to assign extra credit for students to “Read and See.” This play is appropriate for most, ages 12 and up.

The show’s dates are November 10, 14-17 and 21-23. Sunday performances begin at 2 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday shows begin at 8 p.m. The show is approximately 90 minutes with no intermission. To learn more about this show, purchase tickets or receive your 84 Charing Cross Road bookmark, please call the GPT offices at 313-881-4004. We hope to see you at the theatre!