convergence-continuum to Present SELF DEFENSE, Begin. Tonight

convergence-continuum continues its 2013 Season, Ruled by Passion, with a cutting-edge drama: the Ohio premiere of Self Defense, or death of some salesmen by Carson Kreitzer. (Ms. Kreitzer is also the author of Freakshow, which received an award-winning convergence-continuum production in 2008.)

Seven men have been found dead along I-95 in Florida. A prostitute is arrested and charged with their murders. The police say she's a serial killer. She claims seven separate acts of self-defense. Inspired by the true story of Aileen Wuornos, Self Defense, or death of some salesmen is fast and furious, shocking and funny, and at its center, a portrait of a very complicated human being. She is complex, charismatic, dangerous, damaged, full of love and anger; above all else, she is alive. An investigation of capital punishment, destitution, violence against (and by) women, and whether a prostitute is considered a person under our justice system, Self Defense gives a long, hard look at an America most of us don't want to admit exists. (Note: this play contains mature content.)

Self Defense is directed by convergence-continuum's Geoffrey Hoffman (who also directed Freakshow), and features Laurel Hoffman, Elaine Feagler, Katie Atkinson, Rachel Kolis, Emily Pucell, Aaron Elersich, Wes Shofner, Joe Dunn and Clyde Simon.

Self Defense opens tonight, July 5 and runs at 8 p.m. Thu-Sat through July 27 at the Liminis, 2438 Scranton Rd., Cleveland, OH 44113 in the historic Tremont neighborhood. Tickets are $15 general admission, $12 for seniors and $10 for students. Reservations and information at www.convergence-continuum.org and 216-687-0074.

Self Defense is supported in part by the residents of Cuyahoga County through a public grant from Cuyahoga Arts & Culture.