Many of your favorite musicals and plays began life as readings, which are just what they sound like. The playwright gathers a group of professional actors to read through the script so the author can hear what it sounds like, often for the first time.

Some are open to the public; some are “industry only,” meaning that they are open only to invited theatre professionals. ”Staged readings” are more elaborately presented, sometimes with staging and rudimentary costumes. “Concert performances” present the work, generally a musical, without sets or costumes.

Here are three planned for the coming week:

Capone (November 18) Broadway and film star Danny Aiello (The Godfather: Part II) and Tony winner Beth Leavel (The Drowsy Chaperone) will take part in a private New York reading of this new musical about the legendary Chicago gangster Al Capone. Book, music, and lyrics are by Robert Mitchell. Directed by Alexander Dinelaris. Produced by Caiola Productions. Also in the cast: Kemmofer Bowles, Jared Zirilli, Ted Koch, and Rocco Sisto.

Who Killed Marilyn? (November 18) Sharleen Cooper Cohen’s newest play will receive a private industry reading at 2 PM November 18 at Shetler Studios, 244 W. 54th Street in Manhattan. Industry professionals interested in attending should inquire at [email protected].

Five Points (November 18-20) 11th Hour Theatre Company hosts a concert performance of this new musical by Douglas Lyons and Ethan Pakchar. Tickets start at $19 for students and theatre industry members and can be ordered by calling (267) 987-9865. Performances are at 2329 South 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA.