WEST ATHENS — Veteran playwright Anna Freeman is looking for a few good men – and women – for her newest production set for September on the stage at East Madison Square Garden.

She is casting teenagers or young adults who look to be 17 to 19 years old – four young men and two young women – to perform in her latest play, titled “Not My Problem.”

Although the work is humorous in its depiction of a close-knit group of high school seniors enjoying their last semester before graduation, Freeman said the heart of the matter is serious. It addresses the alienation and isolation that some students feel, she said.

“This dilemma has the potential, too often, to lead to the kind of tragedies we face in our schools today,” said Freeman, 80. “The young people in my play are good kids, but they are too self-centered and judgmental, especially in regards to one of their classmates, a ‘townie’ on academic scholarship who is going through a rough spot. Is it, or is it not, their problem? That is the question the play poses.”

Freeman’s newest production follows last year’s success, “The Court of Final Reckoning,” in which seven people who have died recently are brought before a judge, accused of committing one of the seven deadly sins: avarice, vanity, pride, envy, lust, wrath and sloth.

Freeman said no theatrical experience is required, but some acting experience would be helpful. Memorization and rehearsal times will be at a minimum, she said. Transportation to and from rehearsals and performances can be provided if needed.

“Most important,” she said, “is an understanding of and interest in the play’s message.”

Audition times and location will be announced later this month.

The performances are scheduled for Sept. 6, 7, 8, 13, 14 and 15 at East Madison Square Garden. Anyone interested in being in the play is asked to email Freeman at annavanderheide@hotmail.com or by calling her at 654-2664.

Freeman, who has been living off and on in West Athens since 1973, was a local columnist, taught drama, and wrote and produced plays at the elementary and high schools in the Skowhegan and Madison school districts. She was a member of Cornville Players and Curtain Up Enterprises at Lakewood Theatre and was one of the founders and principal characters in the 40 years of In Spite of Life productions in the West Athens gravel pit.

Doug Harlow can be contacted at 612-2367 or at:

dharlow@centralmaine.com

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