History will be made this Friday, January 31, as Genesius Theatre debuts the world premiere of Has Anyone Seen My Mind?, a new musical created by Tony-nominated writer Bill Russell. Directed by Broadway veteran Justin Ross Cohen, the production will run for a limited time, concluding on February 8.
The musical is a collaborative effort between Russell, a longtime Genesius contributor, and Cohen, known for his performances in the original Broadway productions of Pippin and A Chorus Line. The duo’s creative partnership spans nearly five decades, rooted in a shared passion for storytelling and performance. Has Anyone Seen My Mind? is a revue-style production featuring a blend of spoken monologues and musical numbers crafted from Russell’s decades of personal musings.
Russell describes the show as “a wild ride through our current cultural landscape, filled with hilarious, touching, and engaging thoughts about contemporary life. It addresses the quirks of modern living, the enduring mysteries of relationships, and our frequently curious cultural climate.”
Cohen adds, “It’s a show about four people trying to find their sanity in an insane world.” He praised the cast—Jennifer Parker-Scott, Edwina Vargas, Edwin Diaz, and Ian Wettlaufer—for their exceptional talent and emotional authenticity in bringing the challenging, character-driven piece to life.
The production also features an accomplished creative team, including music by Janet Hood, Nick Cearley, and Ron Melrose, with orchestration by Mark Hartman. The show is produced by LJ Fecho, with stage management by Sara Huard, set design by LJ Fecho, lighting by David Tyson and Sonja Mowery, sound by Albert Garcia, costumes by Cathy Miller, and scenic art by Marjory Ewald.
Genesius Theatre, located at 153 N. 10th St., Reading, is renowned for fostering community through the arts. Russell expressed his admiration for community theater, noting its unique ability to bring people together. An excerpt from a poem he wrote during his previous Genesius production, Unexpected Joy, now hangs in the theater’s lobby and highlights the vital role local performers and volunteers play in creating a sense of togetherness.
To make this historic premiere accessible, tickets are priced between $15 and $28. Performances are scheduled for January 31, February 1, 2, 6, 7, and 8, with evening shows at 7:30 p.m. and a matinee on February 2 at 3 p.m. The production runs approximately 90 minutes without intermission.
Additional Amenities for Attendees
Genesius Theatre has partnered with the DoubleTree by Hilton to offer a convenient park-dine-and-shuttle program. Guests can park for free at the DoubleTree garage, enjoy a meal at Cheers American Bistro, and take a complimentary shuttle to and from the show. Details and reservations can be arranged through the DoubleTree.
For more information about parking, accessibility, and tickets, visit www.genesiusdifference.org or call 610-371-8151.
This one-of-a-kind production is expected to leave audiences with laughter, catharsis, and a renewed appreciation for the power of community theater. Don’t miss your chance to witness a piece of Broadway history brought to life in Berks County.