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Posted on Thu, Sep 30, 2010 : 11:46 a.m.

Purple Rose Theatre offers sneak peek at Jeff Daniels' "Best of Friends" as a fundraiser

By AnnArbor.com Staff

On Sunday, October 10, the Purple Rose Theatre Company's 20th Anniversary Season starts with a new benefit event.

The celebration begins with a private sneak preview of the dress rehearsal of Jeff Daniels' new play, "Best of Friends." For the first time, guests can see the dress rehearsal of a Rose world premiere and be able to discuss the play with the playwright, the director, cast and designers.

The Gala, hosted by Sheila and Steve Hamp, includes wine and hors d’oeuvres at 5 p.m., followed by the play, conversation, and dinner with the playwright and artists.

With this Gala, guests will have a behind-the-scenes pass to see how the “sausage is made” — actually, to be part of the making. What goes on at a rehearsal? What changes are made? How will their reactions, insights, and opinions change the final staging of the play? To answer this last question, along with a Gala ticket, guests will receive a half-price ticket to see "Best of Friends" again, staged in its final form.

Benefit tickets are $250 per person ($150 of this amount is eligible for a tax deduction). For tickets and information, contact the Purple Rose at 734-433-7782 or via email at ReachUs@purplerosetheatre.org.