For 12 years, Suncoast AIDS Theatre Project founder Garry Breul has brought uproarious and inspirational staged readings to Tampa Bay to help fund the fight against HIV/AIDS. (This past year, Breul has had to shift his focus on his own health — he was diagnosed with cancer in his lungs and brain last spring.)
As Is was the play that brought Breul to Tampa Bay. In 1985, saddened by the deaths of so many in the Milwaukee theater community (including a close friend who was only 18), he moved to Sarasota to assist in Asolo State Theatre Company’s production of the drama.
Join Breul and the Suncoast AIDS Theatre Project for another heartfelt rendition of William Hoffman’s Obie Award Winning play. The story follows two young men who face the realization that one of them is affected with HIV/AIDS. Thie staged reading stars Steve Garland, Larry Alexander, Brian Shea, Roxanne Fay, Becca McCoy, Jim Sorensen and Stephen Ray.
All proceeds from ticket sales will go to help the Metro Wellness and Community Center AIDS programs, a non profit that seeks to raise awareness and provide assistance to those affected by HIV/AIDS. $15 advance ticket, suggested $10-$20 donation at the door.
Mon., Dec. 1, 8 p.m. American Stage Theatre Company, 163 Third St. N., St Petersburg. 727-823-PLAY (7529).
This article appears in Nov 27 – Dec 3, 2014.