PRINT
April 2013 brings the return of the acclaimed theater company Outside the Wire to Maine for a riveting piece of theater on a critical issue.
The Maine Humanities Council has commissioned a special piece from the theater company Outside the Wire on domestic violence. Domestic violence crosses all class, gender, educational, ethnic, and religious boundaries. According to the Maine Attorney General’s office close to 22% of Maine citizens--approximately 60,000 people--are victims of domestic assault annually. Domestic violence is a difficult issue to discuss, but one that is critical to discuss, especially in a community setting.
Theater is a powerful method for discussing difficult issues. In 2011, the Maine Humanities Council proved this by bringing Outside the Wire in for three performances in front of nearly 800 Mainers on critical health care issues. Audience members described the whole experience as moving, exciting, and transformative.
In this special performance, Outside the Wire will use scenes from A Streetcar Named Desire to examine the topic of domestic violence and start a public dialogue. The performance will consist of three parts: a dramatic reading by professional actors; responses to the scenes from a panel of community members; and a town-hall style discussion lead by Outside the Wire’s Bryan Doerries, a skilled and thoughtful facilitator. Panelists will be made up of community members who represent a variety of perspectives on the issue of domestic violence, including family members, law enforcement, domestic violence prevention advocates, and healthcare professionals.
Please note: Some may find events in the two scenes read by the actors disturbing. This is recommended for mature audiences.
A Community Conversation about Domestic Violence
led by Outside the Wire
Portland, ME
John Ford Theater, Portland High School
April 16, 2013, 7 - 9 pm
Lewiston, ME
Franco-American Heritage Center
April 17, 2013, 7 - 9 pm
Bangor, ME
Gracie Theater, Husson University
April 18, 2013, 7 - 9 pm
Seating is limited. Reserve your tickets now.