Remembering Howard Zinn

I just recieved a call from my friend Mike McAteer in LA that Howard Zinn died an hour ago in Santa Monica, CA. Professor Zinn was a world respected writer and testified in support of the Camden 28 and Michael Doyle in the early 1970's. I am going to LA in two weeks to be a part of a production of his play "Marx In Soho" that Bob Weick brought to SCTC so brilliantly two years ago. Only 3 weeks ago Howard sent me a check for SCTC to help us buy our lighting system. Howard's passing is a tragedy for not just us but for the nation. A true voice of truth and peace has been lost. I am still going to LA for the play on 2-13. The play will now be in memorial of this giant of American literature and culture. A giant of a man whose voice help stop the Vietnam War and who's book, "A People's History Of the US" will resonate with all us forever. The " moving train" has stopped sir, you deserve your rest. You will be greatly missed.

"Last Rites" for sale at Barnes and Noble stores!

"Last Rites" will be sold in Barnes and Noble stores shortly according to my publisher, Jon Hansen. Up to now it has been available online at numerous locations but this news will now put it on the shelves of local bookstores. Thanks to everyone for your support.

Only four weeks until "Belmont Avenue Social Club" opens. Rehearsals are going great and the set is coming together. Get your tickets now at www.southcamdentheatre.org. Theatre has never been so alive in Camden. See you at the play!

Good Luck Dana Redd from SCTC!

Dana Redd was sworn in as Mayor of Camden this week. Mayor Redd has deep ties to Waterfront South and a deep love for Camden and theatre. Waterfront South Theatre is being born at the same time a new light is shining on our city. Good luck, Mayor Redd. I hope to see you at many SCTC productions and look forward to your ongoing support for art and light in Waterfront South. Heal Camden!

Belmont Avenue Social Club [with pool table] coming in February!

Last night, we brought a pool table into the theatre, the first sign of our next play coming to SCTC! Thanks to Jim, Katie, Ray and Brad for braving the snow, ice and cold to bring a necessary piece to the theatre for our next production. This really is exciting and fun work. "Belmont Avenue Social Club', Bruce Graham's biting and funny play about local politics, under the direction of Ray Croce promises to jump start your 2010 theatre season. Bringing a pool table into the theatre on a cold winter's night got my theatre fire started. Have a great holiday season and see you all in February!

Holiday Season Reminder

First of all let me take this time to wish all of you a happy holiday season. Thank you for your generosity as we build the Waterfront South Theatre togeteher! I wanted to remind you that we still have seats available to be named for your loved ones. We also have smaller gift levels available to help the theatre continue to come to life! Please go to www.southcamdentheatre.org/support.html for information. Thank you in advance for briinging art and life to Camden. 2010 will be an incredible year. See you at the theatre!

Reminder: Book Party Wednesday night at Max's

A quick reminder that tomorrow night, 12-2, from 6-8PM we will be at Max's Seafood in Gloucester celebrating the print release of "Last Rites". I hope you can come out, say hello and celebrate the next step in the long journey of Walt, Sue and the rest of the characters who populate the play and Camden in 1967. From conception, to written play, to production, to Watefront South Theatre and beyond, this publication by Hansen Publishing is the next step in our journey. I hope to see you tomorrow night. Jon Hansen, the publisher, will be on hand with copies of the book for sale. Max's is located at the corner of Hudson and Burlington Streets in Gloucester City, NJ [08030 if you're mapquesting]. See you then!

One Actor Still Needed for "Belmont"

We still seek one actor [50-60, non equity] for "Belmont Avenue Social Club", our play that will begin in February. Email me at joep@southcamdentheatre.org if you would like to read for our director, Ray Croce.