Monday Evening Readings
March 24, 2025
Follies by Steven Sondheim
Set in a crumbling theatre, Sondheim's musical explores the dreams, regrets, and relationships of former showgirls and their partners. Follies is a double entendre, both the name of a long-forgotten New York variety show and a nod to the follies and delusions of the characters in the show. Sondheim described it as a story about the death of dreams, but it is also a celebration of resilience. With grandeur, comedy, and poignancy, the show offers rich roles for performers of all ages, making it a truly ensemble-driven experience.
March 31, 2025
The Drawer Boy by Michael Healy
Miles, a young actor from the big city moves in with two friends, Morgan and Angus, aging bachelor farmers, to do research for a new play. Intrigued by the puzzling Angus who suffered brain damage during World War II, and gently tormented by Morgan because of his ignorance of all things rural, Miles attempts to integrate himself into farm life with varying success. Desperate for material, Miles includes an overheard story in his play, unwittingly breaking open the fragile pattern of the farmers' lives.
The Zurich English-Speaking Theatre meets almost every Monday evening for a play reading. Potential new members are always welcome - take a look at the reading details on this page for the next reading date. All meetings take place at St. Andrew's Community Centre, near Stadelhofen in central Zurich (see the map below). Doors open around 19:00 for an informal get-together and the reading starts at 19:30 unless otherwise stated. You don't need to sign up or inform us that you are coming, but if you have any questions, please contact us via the General Enquiries page.
Play readings are organised and read by members without rehearsal with scripts in hand and a basic set. Newcomers will not be initially asked to read, but if you'd like to get involved, talk to anyone on the committee and we will be glad to put you down on the reading list.
Monday readings are open to anyone and count towards your membership session count. For more information on membership, see the membership page.
