New plays reading series

Sussex — “The Ballad of Father Gallagher,” an intriguing new script by James McLindon, will have a public reading on Saturday, March 17 at Tri-State Actors Theater, 74 Main St., Sussex. The reading begins at 8 p.m. and admission is by donation. “Father Gallagher,” read by Brian Madigan, is a weary and dispirited priest who is about to encounter the most bizarre confession of his career. Bill Edwards reads the role of Bartholomew, an aspiring artist and John Little will read Jack, Bartholomew’s dying, criminal father. “The Ballad of Father Gallagher,” directed by Paul Meacham, is the first in this season’s New Plays Reading Series. Last season, Tri-State presented a reading of McLindon’s new play, “Handicapping,” which will be presented at Tri-State in September. Audience members are invited to stay for a discussion session with the playwright, director and actors following the reading. Refreshments will be served. For more information, contact the theater at 973-875-2950 or visit them on the Web at www.tristateactorstheater.org.