FROM: RICHARD CUMMINGS, PLAYWRIGHTTSI/Playtime Series is unique in New York theatre. It is the only vehicle for new playwrights to have their work produced in a low budget but excellently presented vehicle for discriminating audiences. Not unlike the late, lamented Playwrights Unit of Edward Albee and Robert Moss, TSI/Playtime Series is designed for the playwright, so his/her work can be explored at an early stage of development so it can be revised for future, more elaborate productions.
A TSI/Playtime Series production enables the playwright to participate fully with the actors as well as the staff of Theatre-Studio Inc, in a learning experience that is unmatched anywhere in New York. It is a laboratory of cutting edge theatre, without which the entire theatre scene in New York would be greatly diminished. Were TSI to gain a permanent home, its invaluable work could expand in exciting ways at a time in the city's history when it needs to revitalize theatre beyond the blockbuster Broadway musicals that are aimed primarily at tourists. Without an avant-garde, New York will cease to be New York and will lose out to Chicago and Philadelphia as the leaders of new theatre that inspires and challenges. TSI is the avant-garde; it is without equal in New York. Because of this, it will be able to generate financial support in New York from dedicated persons who want to keep New York as the capital of new theatre in America.
~Richard Cummings, Playwright, author of "Soccer Moms From Hell."
