School of Performing Arts and Readers Theater to Show “It’s Not that Simple
Contact: Karen Cole at (207) 581-4700
ORONO – University of Maine students will perform a show based on the subject of sexual assault in the next School of Performing Arts “Readers’ Theater” production. The show, “It’s Not That Simple,” will be sponsored by the School of Performing Arts along with the Safe Campus Project, a campus resource center that focuses on domestic and sexual abuse.
The performance is set for 7:30 p.m. on March 26, in Minsky Recital Hall in Class of 1944 Hall. Donations will benefit Spruce Run and Rape Response Services in Bangor.
UMaine theater and dance student Molly Schenck compiled and choreographed the show, which she will direct. The performance incorporates visual and performing arts including theater, dance, music and new media.
“I wanted to raise awareness about sexual assault, how common it is and how difficult it is to deal with in any form.” Schenck says, adding that the opportunity to combine her passion for the visual and performing arts with raising awareness has been a “wonderful experience.”
Through these different mediums, Schenck has powerfully represented many different kinds of assault – including voyeurism, stalking, rape and domestic abuse. Many of the performers in the show have been touched by sexual assault in some way during their lives, which adds a personal and dramatic element to the show.
“Readers’ theatre was developed as a convenient and effective means to present literary works in dramatic form,” says Karen Cole, the School of Performing Arts business manager. The theater encourages community involvement, and uses minimal costume, scenery or props.
The Safe Campus Project staff hopes this performance will reach an important audience in new ways.
“Programming is usually not delivered through dance and the arts; we hope to connect to people who are not reached by typical educational programs,” said Carey Nason, Safe Campus Project coordinator.
For more information about this performance or the School of Performing Arts, contact Karen Cole at 581-4700 or Karen.cole@umit.maine.edu.