By Daniel Larios
Staff Writer

July 1, 2014 – The Santa Monica Repertory Theater will perform a reading of Bertolt Brecht’s the “Life of Galileo” this month as part of a summer monthly series of play readings at the Santa Monica Public Library’s MLK Jr. Auditorium.

The free reading July 12 at 2 p.m. is open to audiences of all ages and limited seating is on a first come basis. To avoid disruption during the performance, seating will only be allowed prior to the play’s start and during the intermission.

Written by Bertolt Brecht, a one-time Santa Monica resident, the “Life of Galileo,” follows the life of revolutionary scientist Galileo Galilei, highlighting his contributions from his first experience with a telescope to his backing of Copernicus’ idea that the Earth revolves around the sun.

The play also presents his battles with Catholic Church authorities, as well as his imprisonment for his alleged blasphemous teachings.

A classic of German and English stages, the Santa Monica Rep’s production of this dramatic play is directed by Rep co-founder Eric Bloom.

Santa Monica Rep was founded by Sarah Gurfield, Jen Bloom and Eric Bloom.  After moving to Santa Monica in 2009, the Blooms joined Gurfield, a Santa Monica native, and decided to continue exploring their unique brand of storytelling and community building as a Westside team.

They have performed several popular one-time-only readings at the Santa Monica Public Library, as well as sold-out runs of various popular productions at theaters throughout Santa Monica and the west side. 

For more information on the company, visit www.santamonicarep.org.

This monthly series of readings is a part of the library’s Adult Summer Reading campaign, under the theme of Literary Elements.

For more information on the full Adult Summer Reading series, visit smpl.org/ASR2014.aspx.

For more information on Santa Monica Public Library programs, visit smpl.org or contact the Santa Monica Public Library at (310) 458-8600