October 1, 2008

Full Cast Audio comes to Harding University

SEARCY, Ark. – Famous children's authors Bruce Coville and Tamora Pierce and artistic director Dan Bostick will perform in the Benson auditorium on Dec. 6. Full Cast Audio, sponsored by the University's graduate reading programs, promises to spellbind audiences of all ages.
These literary giants will perform works live in an effort to engage children with the excitement and magic of reading. Founded by Coville, Full Cast Audio performers work to record unabridged audio versions of children's books using a full cast of readers instead of a single narrator. Whenever possible, they use the original author of the work in their cast.

Coville, fulfilling a dream cherished since the 6th grade, has published fantasy books on every topic imaginable. He is perhaps best known for The Unicorn Chronicles, but he has also retold Shakespeare stories and created entire series about aliens, space brats and magic shops.

Pierce astounded the world of children's fantasy in 1983 with The Song of the Lioness Quartet about a lady knight. Pierce's work, primarily about magic and centered on teenage characters, continues to delight young audiences.

Bostick is Coville's partner for Full Cast Audio. He directs the productions and also serves as a frequent cast member. Bostick gained theatrical experience at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York and has played many roles on the stage.

The Full Cast Audio performance costs $15, and $5 of the ticket price goes towards a book purchase. The performance will be family friendly and open to the public.