Original Youth Production from Near West Theatre Sends Message of Vigor, Empowerment, Hope

Posted September 24, 2020 in Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Near West Theatre will stream Rise: The Isolation Project, from October 10 through October 18

CLEVELAND – What happens when you give the stage to youth with virtually no disclaimers or stipulations? The result is Near West Theatre (NWT)’s next production, entitled: Rise: The Isolation Project.

This theatrical experience is headed to the Near West Theatre stage as the first show in its reimagined 2020-21 Season.

Rise: The Isolation Project was steeped from the organization’s summer youth program of the same name. This year, the program was designed as an original writing and performance project for youth, by youth, exploring the impact of COVID-19, quarantine, Black Lives Matter, and other social matters happening in the world and in their lives. It offered a unique opportunity to unite the community’s youth from across past programming and shows to share their stories, their hopes, and their experiences. Together, youth developed the original piece that will stream in October. Audiences can expect a powerful performance, packed with a full spectrum of emotion, energy, empowerment, and optimism.

Starring in this production is Near West Theatre’s extended youth cast, ages 9 – 18, under the direction of Trinidad Snider, the organization’s Artistic Director. Scott Ackerman, Mariah Burks, Jodi Kirk, Darius Stubbs, and Olivia Zink all facilitated as teaching artists.

“We have so much to learn from these amazing young artists,” says Snider. “I am so excited for our community, their families, and our supporters because what they are about to experience will hopefully challenge and enlighten them and provide a sense of hope knowing that these incredible humans will one day rule the world.”

Performances will be streamed exclusively online for two weekends from October 10 – 18. With this season, the theatre is introducing a Pay What You Can model for every performance, with a suggested donation of $15 per streaming.

The season will continue with another original production, entitled: All Roads Lead to Home: A Near West Theatre Holiday Gathering, running December 11 – 20. Visit the Near West Theatre website for specific dates and times and casting information. www.nearwesttheatre.org.

View the trailers for the performance through Near West Theatre’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD_OkKJ00VtwgSdUynsYACw?view_as=subscriber.

The Near West Theatre Box Office is completely closed due to COVID-19 precautions. Patrons are free to email boxoffice@nearwesttheatre.org to ask questions or receive assistance in purchasing streaming access for Rise.

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