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The Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts and Patchogue-Medford Library announced Wednesday they’re teaming up to present a free series that will bring authors and their fans, writing workshops and more to the theater’s spacious lobby area.
The literary series is being called Library in the Lobby, and joins the theater’s other events held in the front lobby, such as Live in the Library (music), Laughter in the Lobby (comedy) and The New Musicals Project (original theater).
The announcement follows what John Ashline, the theater’s executive director, said was a successful author event in October with mummy expert Dr. Bob Brier.
After that, the theater received numerous requests for other such events, he said.
“We realized the literary arts were underserved in Patchogue and there was a niche to be filled,” Ashline said. “It was a natural choice to have the library join us in this endeavor; a good pairing of public and private entities working together to educate and entertain the public.”
Patchogue-Medford Library’s director, Lauren Nichols, said providing access to writers and leaders in thought is a “fantastic way to cultivate community growth and engagement.”
“Being able to increase our offerings with the help of incredibly creative professionals in such a renowned venue is a wonderful addition to our current programs,” she said.
The first “Library in the Lobby” is set for Sunday, Jan. 10, at 3 p.m.
It will feature a book discussion and signing with Long Island University political philosophy professor and author Michael Soupios.
He’ll give a 45-minute talk on his latest book, “The Ten Golden Rules of Leadership: Classical Wisdom for Modern Leaders” (AMACOM), co-authored with LIU economics professor Panos Mourdoukoutas. This is an event for anyone looking to strengthen their leadership skills in the workplace and beyond, the organizers said.
The goal of Library in the Lobby is to broaden the local arts and literary scene in the Greater Patchogue area, according to the announcement. Future Library in the Lobby events in February, March and April will be announced in the coming weeks.
Although the theater’s main theater space is being closed for renovations this winter, the theater will still offer lobby events, plan future shows and sell tickets.
The work starts Jan. 4 and first show back on the main stage will be April 2.
There is no admission charge for Library in the Lobby. Reservations are strongly encouraged as there is limited seating, which is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. There are three ways to make a reservation: patrons can visit the Patchogue Theatre box office across from the Patchogue-Medford Library at 71 East Main Street, call the box office at (631) 207-1313 or email boxoffice@patchoguetheatre.org.
For more information on Library in the Lobby events, visit PatchogueTheatre.org/Lobby or PMLIB.org.
