STAGES 2007, Theatre Building Chicago's annual festival of new musicals in progress that are presented in concert-style readings, will offer seven emerging works August 10-12.

Each musical gets viewed twice in the weekend fest, which is becoming regarded as a major regional showcase for new musicals — a must-see for fans and industry folk alike. (It gained national attention last year when a Windy City critic weighed in on the works in progress, raising the hackles of those who advocate the sanctity of incubators like the one at Theatre Building Chicago.)

"Now in its 14th season, STAGES focuses on the development of the material, the craft of writing and the talent of the performers," according to TBC.

The new musicals to be seen in concert readings at STAGES 2007 include:

Moon Shine!, with music and lyrics by country star Marty Stuart and a book by Mary Willard. "A Texan has only a few weeks to find a wife before losing his inheritance — the family pet food business. Tumbleweeds and hairballs combine to make a hilarious musical comedy." Curtain times range from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., August 11-12. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

Theatre Building Chicago is located at 1225 West Belmont Avenue, Chicago, Illinois.

For information call (773) 327-5252 or visit www.theatrebuildingchicago.org

By Kenneth Jones