This coming weekend, River Dell High School’s Drama Club is set to perform their fall play The Laramie Project.
The play dramatizes the aftermath of the killing of Matthew Shepard, a college student that was brutally beaten and left to die in Laramie, Wyoming.
During the play’s writing The Tectonic Theatre Project, a group from New York City, traveled to Laramie after the tragedy to conduct interviews with residents, police, friends, and family.
When first performed, the cast was eight actors large that played the 64 different roles. The actors seamlessly transitioned into different residents of Laramie.
For River Dell’s production, there are 24 cast members that bring the story to life, with many students accepting the challenge of taking on multiple roles.
The show will be performed on Friday, November 21st at 7:00 pm, Saturday, November 22nd at 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm, and Sunday, November 23rd at 2:00 pm. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for River Dell students, staff, and senior citizens.
The audience is encouraged to arrive early to view a special gift donated by the Matthew Shepard Foundation, which was founded by Shepard’s parents after his passing. River Dell received laminated letters written to Matthew’s family after his passing, many from children, offering a heartfelt glimpse into the impact of this tragedy.
While a heartfelt production, the show does contain mature themes, including a presence of hate speech and strong language. While these elements are presented thoughtfully to foster empathy, understanding, and compassion among everyone, this production is not recommended for children under 13.
Ms. Kasen, the director of Drama Club, explained that while they do want a large audience, it is not only for maximum sales but “to spread awareness that even in the most challenging and darkest of times, love always wins.”
With over two months of preparation, the cast and crew for the Laramie Project have dedicated themselves to bringing this emotional and thought-provoking story to the stage.
River Dell encourages the community to attend, not only to support the arts but to spread a message of love and hope in the face of darkness.
