Join us for a special 10th Anniversary of Cold Readings

Theater in Asylum presents a Cold Reading of

​Christopher Marlowe’s 
The Tragical History of the Life and Death of Doctor Faustus
aka
DOCTOR FAUSTUS

​Wednesday, January 22, 2025
7-10 PM ET
Hybrid! In person in Manhattan and on Zoom

RSVP

Join us on January 22nd to read one of history’s greatest tales of ambition and demonology. Meet the scholar Faustus who conjures and subsequently enters into contract with the devil Mephistopheles. Journeys and cruelties ensue with the likes of Helen of Troy, the Pope, and – of course – Lucifer himself. It’s 2025 in America. What better time to question: “Is not all power on earth bestowed on us?” RSVP for more details!

What is a Cold Reading?
For 10 years, Theater in Asylum has been gathering actors and non-actors to read (cold and without rehearsal) great plays. Following each reading, we discuss it, asking questions like, “What stood out?” “What is the play asking us?" and “How would you direct it here and now?” It’s something of a book club, but we read the entire book together on the spot. No expertise or great acting is needed. The stakes are low (there’s no possibility of extension) and high (this is opening and closing night!). The aim is to enjoy reading and discussing theater, and to build confidence in it.

How does it work?
Each Cold Reading begins with introductions so we know who’s in the room. We always read Theater in Asylum’s Community Agreements. Then a facilitator (the only one who needs to know the play beforehand) gives us a brief introduction to the play including who wrote it, when, where, and if there is any critical context we should have before diving in. Some plays have an intermission. Finally, we discuss it. Here’s the rough schedule of a Cold Reading:

• 7pm. Introduce the people in the room and read Community Agreements
• 7:15pm. Facilitator introduces the play.
• 7:25pm. Quick break to use the bathroom & refill your glass
• 7:30pm. A toast to Dionysus, then read the play!
• Some plays have an intermission.
• Quick break after the reading.
• 9:30pm ish. Discussion.
• 10pm. Goodbye!

​Can I read?
Yes! We try to shuffle roles around, prioritizing new folks.

Do I have to read?
No! You’re welcome to just listen.

Do I need to be an actor?
No!

Do I need to read/know the play beforehand?
No! Everyone is reading it “cold.”

Are there rehearsals?
No!

Does it cost money? Is this a paid gig?
No and no!

Do I have to buy the script?
No! We’ll give you one. If you’re able, we encourage everyone to bring a device (phone, tablet, laptop, etc.) to read the script.