Good theatre for less

I don't know how they're able to do it financially, but Providence's Trinity Repertory Company is expanding its discount ticket offerings, making available select seats at every performance - 5,000 in all - for $20 apiece for its four remaining plays of the season.

Here's what Trinity Rep's artistic director, Curt Columbus, said in announcing the program:

“For 45 years, Trinity Rep has been Rhode Island’s theatrical home, and we have always provided great entertainment at a great value. We know that many people in our community are feeling the effects of the economic problems right now, so we created this $20 ticket program to let our friends and neighbors know that an entertaining, enriching night at the theater is still within everyone’s reach."

I'm really hoping that people who haven't been to Trinity for awhile, or maybe have never been, will take advantage of the offer. This is definitely a great time to check out one of the region's finest theatre companies.

Here's the lineup:

A Raisin in the Sun, by Lorraine Hansberry, the story of an African-American family struggling for a better life in 1950s Chicago: Jan. 30 to March 8

The Secret Rapture, by David Hare, about two sisters who come together to face their differences after their father dies: Feb. 20 to to March 29

The Importance of Being Earnest, by Oscar Wilde, a comedy of manners and mistaken identities: April 10 to May 10

Shapeshifter, by Laura Schellhardt, a world premiere about the legendary tales of mysterious women who come from the sea: May 1 to May 31

The $20 tickets are available for purchase by phone at 401-351-4242 daily between noon and 8 p.m., online at www.trinityrep.com, and in person at the box office at 201 Washington St. in Providence. You can also check out Trinity Rep's other ticket discounts.