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Some of New York's most distinctive contemporary theater artists -- including Joanna P. Adler, Sheila Callaghan, Richard Maxwell, and Mac Wellman -- are set to participate in Prelude '05: At the Forefront of Contemporary NYC Theatre. Featuring more than 20 performances, readings, studio presentations, and open rehearsals, Prelude '05 is set for September 28-October 1 at the Martin E. Segal Theatre at CUNY (365 Fifth Avenue).

The festival will kick off on Wednesday, September 28 with a panel discussion titled NYC Theatre Within a Global Context, a look at how American work is perceived and produced internationally. Speakers will include Vallejo Gantner, artistic director of PS 122; Eric Dryer of Radiohole; and Paul Lazar of Big Dance Theater. The discussion will be followed by a reception at which Cynthia Hopkins will appear.

All events except the concluding Saturday Night Club Concert on October 1 are free, with admission on a first-come, first-served basis. Attendees can buy a $20 Festival Pass, which guarantees one seat per person to four performances plus admission to the Saturday Night Club Concert.