ASAP To Hosts Public Celebration of Young Writers

WASHINGTON DEPOT – ASAP, the After School Arts Program, will present “A Celebration of Young Writers” on Saturday, June 17, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, at Bryan Memorial Town Hall.

The evening will feature Frank McCourt, author of Angela’s Ashes, ‘Tis and Teacher Man; actor and comedian Denis Leary; actor Peter Gallagher of the television show The O.C; and playwright A.R. Gurney, Jr., whose works, including The Dining Room and Love Letters, have been produced on international theateR stages for more than thirty years.

Other leading lights in the literary and entertainment worlds who will join the featured guests to read selections from works by students in nine public and private schools throughout Region 12 include Tom Cole, Fran Brill Kelly, Susan Kinsolving, Ann McDonough, Dani Shapiro and Rose Styron.

The readings will be preceded by a silent auction and a reception catered by Executive Cuisine of New Milford, with beverages by Casa Bacchus of Litchfield and County Wine and Spirits of New Preston.  Highlights of the silent auction will include a signed box set of Graydon Carter’s Oscar Night book; autographed prints by famed children’s book author and illustrator Mercer Mayer, and a one-of-a-kind, signed and dated handblown glass-footed vase from Adeptus Arts Studio.

This event is a benefit for ASAP.

Tickets are $35 for general admission and $50 for reserved seating and may be purchased at Hickory Stick Bookshop in Washington Depot or by calling 860-868-0740.

ASAP is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing artistic experiences for children and adults. Now in its seventh year, ASAP offers over 70 workshops and events with professional artists in the literary, visual, and performing arts. It receives additional help from non-profit organizations within the Region 12 area.