Drama@Ross play ‘Out in the Open’ teaching UGDSB students about stigma and acceptance
March 28, 2018
GUELPH, Ontario – A touring production is teaching students in the Upper Grand DSB region and beyond about issues such as acceptance and the stigma some youth face when coming out.
Out in the Open is an educational play created by the Drama department at John F. Ross CVI. The play is written by critically acclaimed Canadian playwright Dave Deveau and directed by Tom Slater, Ross’s Co-Head of Arts and Co-Director of RECAP. It features students from the school’s enriched acting and technical streams, many of whom are planning on pursuing post-secondary education and careers in drama and production.
Out in the Open follows best friends Adam and Stephen on a weekend camping trip. While lost in the forest, the audience sees how these two boys navigate being stuck in roles they aren’t sure they fit in.
The play uses humour to discuss serious subjects youth face today, including gender stereotypes, labels and homophobia. It explores the experience of having to reveal a truth about yourself that others may not understand or agree with.
Currently on tour, the 45-minute play is available for school bookings and is suitable for grades 7 to 12.
The purpose of Out in the Open is not just to entertain, but to educate and get people talking.
When a school books the play, they must also commit to doing work with students before and after the show to further explore and discuss the topics raised. “It’s important that the show get people talking,” explained Slater, adding that the shows produced at Drama@Ross must be meaningful and have an education value – on top of being entertaining.
For more information about Out in the Open or to book the play at your school, contact Tom Slater at [email protected].
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