The purpose is powerALERT’s final fundraiser for the year 2000 to benefit its Environmental and Legal Defense Fund. PowerALERT’s consultants successfully argued New Milford’s case before the Connecticut Siting Council last fall, garnering a 9-0 decision against Sempra Energy of San Diego, California, prohibiting them from building a 500-megawatt power plant in New Milford.

The award-winning Love Letters, to be directed by Joseph Tillinger, is a poignant, 90-minute story of Melissa and Andy, two childhood soulmates who carry out a 60-year relationship through letters.  Written in 1989, the play has enjoyed tremendous success. The work’s two-character cast reads the play side-by-side at a desk.

“We are thrilled that both Sam Waterston and Mia Farrow will be performing for powerALERT,” said powerALERT co-chair Ginny Chulkovs. “The play is never the same play twice. The actors respond to the play, to their own cues and also, greatly, to the ambiance of the audience. Come prepared to laugh, but also bring your handkerchief.”

Previous benefits for powerALERT have included events an afternoon called “Life Is Beautiful,” which featured the designer DianeVon Furstenberg, a Sunday brunch and a viewing of the Academy Award-winning movie of the same name; “Nothing But Blue Skies,” with Ruth and Skitch Henderson (of New York Pops fame) hosting a musical variety showcase of local professional talent; and “An Evening with Frank McCourt,” with the Pulitzer Prize- winning author (and Roxbury) resident of Angela’s Ashes and ‘Tis.

“We have been so gratified with the response to our fundraisers,” said powerALERT co-chair Ray Wood. “We pride ourselves on presenting fun and exciting events and are pleased when area residents give so generously.”

Tickets for Love Letters $50 for general admission and $65 for preferred seating. To share in the entire theatre experience, powerALERT is also offering “Afterglow,” which allows ticket holders to enjoy the performance followed by a champagne and gourmet dessert reception with a piano bar and chance to meet the actors. “Afterglow” tickets are $125 and include preferred seating.

For information on how to obtain tickets to Love Letters, call powerALERT’s 24-hour hotline at 860/355-0775, or send a check, with a note indicating how many tickets are being purchased and for which seating level, to Love Letters, PO Box 601, New Milford, CT 06776. Checks should be made out to powerALERT.