News Release

IWV Campus

CCCC Presents the Laramie Project

December 3, 2007

The Cerro Coso Community College Theatre Department will present The Laramie Project by Moises Kaufman on Friday, December 7th and Saturday, December 8th at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, December 9th at 2:00 p.m. The Laramie Project is a look into a town ravaged by a heinous crime. The true-life crime included the beating, torture, and subsequent death of gay college student, Matthew Shepard. Although Shepard was the inspiration for this play, the play focuses on the lives of the people affected by the tragedy. The play is a breathtaking collage of interviews conducted in the year after the murder and offers a variety of perspectives, including those of the family and friends of both the victim and the accused. Performances will take place in the Cerro Coso Lecture Center. Tickets are $5 for general admission and $4 for students, seniors, and military and are on sale at Red Rock Books and the Cerro Coso Business Office. Tickets will also be available at the door. The Laramie Project is an adult drama and is not suitable for children.

The talented cast of just 13 actors portrays over 140 parts. Each individual involved in this production has their own reasons for doing so, such as Chad Terry who states, "This is the first true story I've been involved with, and I believe strongly in this message and am glad we can bring attention to it." Celia Kay offers, "I remember the incident, and it affected me greatly. And I wanted to be a part of something that makes people think." James Fern explains, "It is a very serious play and I want to be able to show people the seriousness of crimes of this magnitude. I also love acting and am continuously trying to broaden my horizons."

Josh Haefele agrees, "I believe it has a very important message that should be conveyed to all people." Dr. Melinda Oliver, the director, explains her interest in producing the play, "There were a lot of students who were passionate about this play and I think it is important that student voices are heard."

The Theatre Department will also present an Acting Showcase on December 5th at 4:15 p.m. The Acting Showcase will take place in the Cerro Coso Lecture Center and is free and open to the public.

The Cerro Coso Community College Theatre Department will present The Laramie Project by Moises Kaufman on Friday, December 7th and Saturday, December 8th at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, December 9th at 2:00 p.m. in the College Lecture Center. Pictured (clockwise from upper left corner) James Fern, Chad Terry, Josh Haefele, Jennifer Tankersley, Kathleen Rodgick, Laurel Poulton, Michelle Perez, and Josh Horton.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Joann Handeland, Director of Public Information (760) 384-6230