THROUGH THESE EYES Opens At La Mirada Theatre, 4/12

The current youth movement to be a louder, more distinct voice in these complicated times is clearer than ever in 2018. The oppressive demands to be physically perfect and the obsessive way young people often pursue it are leading millions of teenagers towards dangerous situations. The all-youth cast of Through These Eyes aims to address the concerns head-on in an educational night at the theatre.

The drama by Bruce Gevirtzman, directed by Steve Cisneros, and assistant directed by Emily Rose Githens, will be performed on April 12, 2018 at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets ($10-$55) are now available by calling 714 994 6310 or 562-944-9801 or going online to PhantomProjects.com.

"Through These Eyes is designed to help teen audiences have a healthier view of who they are and who they can become. It's drama based on real life." said Cisneros, the Phantom Projects Producing Artistic Director who founded the company in 1996 at the age of 17.

So important are the themes, that the show includes a post-show discussion with the audience and the performers. The cast will share their personal stories, encounters and personal success in combatting the many topics at hand. Many of those who will be onstage have confronted these topics head-on. And they will not be afraid to get personal.

Gevirtzman, a recently retired local high school English teacher, seasoned playwright, and author (Shaking Hands with Aliens: An Intimate Understanding of America's Teenagers, In Defense of America's Teachers, Straight Talk to Teachers) has put years of observations and empathy into the script which is based on true stories. Much of the dialogue reflects the kinds of comments young people routinely make to each other in conversation or online. They indicate an overwhelming importance placed on how their looks are the key to success in relationships, careers and happiness in general.

To ensure the connection is real, Cisneros has cast teenagers and young adults from all over Southern California: Alexis Curry (12, Orange), Sonny J. Williams (13, Cerritos), Daphne Stift (14, Chino Hills), Naomi Lodoen (14, Camarillo), Lexie Gilstrap (14, Placentia), Tony Trandafir, (15, Commerce), Maddy Nickless (16, Costa Mesa), Summer Martin (17, La Mirada), Roxana Franco (18, Garden Grove), Fernando Perez (18, La Mirada), Madeline Rath (18, Whittier), Joseph Leonardo Ortega (19, Covina), Tessa Githens (20, Fullerton), Ashley Amezcua (20, Los Angeles), Kyle Bassett (21, Garden Grove), Emily Cintron (21, Orange).

Each year, Phantom Projects Theatre Group mounts a season of plays at the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts and touring productions to elementary, middle and high schools in Southern California. The fully staged productions in La Mirada include interpretations of classic literature (18/19 Season Includes The Outsiders, and Wonder) currently on school reading lists, as well productions that address issues of immediate concern to teenagers. The touring productions bring these message-based shows directly to school campuses to combat violence, bullying, racism, and prejudice.

Tickets to Through These Eyes are available by calling 714-994-6310 or 562-944-9801 or going online to PhantomProjects.com. A limited number of BEHIND THE CURTAIN seats are available with includes a backstage tour, a cast-signed poster, photo with the cast, and more.

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