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The Heretic Club and The Ophelia Theatre Group have joined forces to bring to the public a unique brand of story driven immersive theatre. “The Summer I Disappeared” is an exceptional theatre experience created after a series of interviews conducted with two surviving veterans of the Freedom Rides; Ellen Ziskind, & Paul Breines. Performances will be taking place Sept. 23, 24, 25, 30, Oct. 1, 2, 7, 8, 9 at 8pm at the Ophelia Theatre in Astoria NY.
Inspired by the true stories of these Freedom Rider Veterans and the choice that they made to stand up for civil rights in the face of danger and uncertainty, the audience has no other choice but to wonder what they themselves would do in such a seminal moment.
In this piece, a group of poets, musicians, and civil rights activists wrestle with how to respond to the tragic events occurring on May 14th, 1961. This performance actually becomes a one of a kind event because the audience is in the experience with them living out the story. Enter into 1961 while delving into the world as a guest of a hip poetry salon. Period dress is strongly encouraged.
Thomas Kee (actor in Sleep No More, Purge 3, The Company Men) and Eric Ruiter direct a veteran cast debuting their unique brand of story driven immersive theatre. When asked what drove them to choose the Freedom Rides for the focus of this performance, Thomas Kee responded:
“It’s important. And it’s timely” said director, Thomas Kee. “When we look at progress it can be easy to forget what it took to get here. What it cost. And it’s important to remember how much is still left to do.”
Producer Kristi Artinian also added:
“It’s one thing to watch something play out in front of you- distanced. It’s entirely another when you are in it and when your choices can and will affect the outcome of these people’s lives. There’s a sort of guest driven butterfly effect.”
Feel free to watch the video trailer below to get a small taste of what will be happening at the Ophelia Theater with Performances taking place Sept. 23, 24, 25, 30, Oct. 1, 2, 7, 8, 9 at 8pm
About The Heretic Club: The Heretic Club believes in challenging the audience perception of the theatre experience, stepping outside of the accepted norm to provide a new type of entertainment. The Heretic Club also believes in dragons, all kinds of dragons….
Release ID: 132563