About The Laramie Project
RISE Performing Arts is the performing arts program of STRIVE Prep RISE High School. RISE is a social and restorative justice focused school that believes in the importance of analyzing topics and issues in our community that may impact us all directly or indirectly. Each year, RISE selects a topic to focus on for discussion. This year RISE has chosen to focus on Gender and LGBTQ+ Inequalities and Issues.
We have many scholars at RISE who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community or are allies to the LGBTQ+ community. Research has shown that when an individual is educated about LGBTQ+ issues they are less likely to partake in homophobic bullying and are more aware of the impacts of toxic masculinity in our culture.
Please follow the provided link for more information about this topic and a letter from RISE Principal, Aaron Massey
It is with this context and inspiration, that RPA has chosen to present The Laramie Project as this year's Fall production
The Laramie Project is an award winning play that tells the story of the murder of Matthew Shepard, a gay student at the University of Wyoming, from the perspective of the people who were there, the people of Laramie. The Tectonic Theatre Company spent a year and a half, on 6 different trips, traveling to Laramie and conducting interviews to get a true account from the community. It is
an examination of what fear can do to a person/community, but also a story of hope and perseverance.
Please Note: This play addresses adult themes including sexual preference, physical violence and murder, and contains use of homophobic slurs and adult language. Recommended for Ages 13+. Parent discretion advised.
Click below for a video interview with author Moises Kaufman on the 10 year anniversary of Matthew Shepard's death:
RISE Performing Arts
RISE Performing Arts believes that access to quality arts education helps scholars become well-rounded, passionate people who are creative problem-solvers and free thinkers. RPA is dedicated to the creation of entertaining, scholar-centered, social justice-minded performance art that challenges scholars to discover and pursue their passions as artists and creators in a diverse society.