Community Matters
Community Matters is an experiment in community engagement using staged readings of play scripts as a catalyst for discussion, connection, and sharing of resources. Attendees will learn more about a topic of interest from the experts and perhaps get more involved with the issue. Our partner organizations will be there to capture the enthusiasm and excitement that can come from the emotional response to a work of art, and then a well-led public discussion forum.
The Community Matters program is made possible by a grant from the Barra Foundation, with additional support from the Phoenixville Community Health Foundation.
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Productions
By Pete Pryor
May 14, 2012 at 7pm
Directed by Samantha Bellomo
Main Stage
This first play by actor/director Pete Pryor earned him an Independence Fellowship. At around 18 months of age, Pete’s son was diagnosed with ASD, Autism Spectrum Disorder. This two-person impressionistic piece follows a family on its journey from the fearful time of diagnosis to finding an approach and a home program. Scenes of a father dealing with work, travel, and a myriad of therapeutic approaches are inter cut with glimpses of his family’s life and a look at the community that helps his son. It is a piece full of life, humor, and deep love.
Panelists for the discussion will include family members and those impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder on a daily basis, as well as professionals from organizations that assist families.
Community partners include the Chester County Intermediate Unit, Wanna Play Program, M.E.C.A., and the Autism Society of America (Philadelphia Chapter).
Please note: this reading is strongly recommended for ages 16 and up, due to mature language and adult content. If you have any questions about this please call the Box Office at 610.644.3500.
By Leanna Brodie
June 11, 2012 at 7pm
Directed by Wendy Bable
Steinbright Stage
In a one-room schoolhouse in rural Ontario in 1938, a delightfully unruly group of children meets its match in 8-year-old Miss Linton, fresh out of Normal School. But Linton’s greatest challenge is to connect with Ewart, a menacing delinquent who is shut off from everyone, even himself, and to persuade a conservative community to open its arms to him. Playwright Brodie says, “I wanted to look at…how children were cared for and accepted, and what happened when they were not”.
Panelists for the discussion will include families of troubled youth and professionals who deal with issues of bullying and children at risk.
Community partners include Big Brothers Big Sisters of SE PA and Chester County Futures.