You are invited to the teen ensemble’s presentation of William Mastrosimone’s powerful play Bang, Bang You’re Dead. Performances are on Friday, January 31, 7PM, February 1, 3PM and 7PM and Sunday, February 2, 3PM. Admission is free!
William Mastrosimone wrote this play in the late 1990s in response to a violent threat that occurred at his son’s high school. He went on to create a play designed to be performed by students for students – its running time was to fit within a 45-minute class period. It was first performed at Thurston High School in Oregon six months after the school suffered a school shooting. The play was a powerful and healing experience for the community. Mastrosimone then decided to offer the play for free via a website. Students quickly started performing the play around the nation and the world. Showtime Networks would eventually broadcast a movie that was inspired by the play.
Village Arts decided to take on this play to offer an opportunity for our students to create a piece that is sadly still relevant and where the cast could explore a different form of theatre that emphasized ensemble and collaboration. It is our plan that this play is the first of many where our older students get to explore relevant topics that speak to them and their peers.
Due to the topic parental discretion is advised, as the play may not be suitable for children under 8 years old.
