We became "The Newark Project"

Laramie Project Alumni

Share Your experiences being involved with a production of The Laramie Project

We became "The Newark Project"

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Barb

posts: 2

Sep 19, 2009 15:26 Quote

Points: 1 Vote

I have a true love for this piece of work, and a very long history with it. I was directing The Laramie Project at my High School in Newark, CA in 2002 when dear Gwen Araujo was murdered, a transgendered youth. We instantly became the Newark Project, literally living the play. The times were horrific -- we were saying to the media the same things the characters for whom we were rehearsing were saying on stage. Plus two of my former students were the murderers. Leigh & Greg were kind enough to meet with my kids for over 3 hours shortly after the murder, answering questions, counseling us, caring for us. Then Moises, Father Roger, Amanda, and Jeff all attended my opening night to give us unparalleled support. Cathy Renna was working with Glaad then, and she called me daily with help and advice for how to handle the media.

Now I have the honor of directing the play once again and of being selected to perform the Laramie Project: 10 Years Later. So you see, I am passionate about these two incredible pieces of literature and want to get ALL our theatres sold out on October 12th.

Brady

posts: 1

Sep 24, 2009 06:18 Quote

Points: 0 Vote

I think that that is one of the great things about the play. The events covered and portrayed are specific to the Matthew Shepard story, but ultimately, the story can be applied to events all over. Using the specific story gives the rest of the world a common name and face, which allows us to work from a common ground instead of as unconnected factions.