Puzzle Piece Theatre to Present WHITE PEOPLE, 10/24-11/9

Puzzle Piece Theatre stormed into Detroit's theatre scene less than two years ago, bringing with it a clear vision of art as catalyst for conversation. Exploring themes of indifference to human suffering, suicide, and love in times of war rounded out their first season. Season two starts out just as provocatively, with Producing Artistic Director DB Schroder bringing issues of race, prejudice and white privilege to the forefront with White People, a play written by JT Rogers.

White People intertwines the deeply personal narratives of three Caucasian people, showcasing their deeply held beliefs, and sometimes darkest secrets, in the context of owning their story. Is it enough for southern housewife Mara Lynn to smile and wax nostalgic about high school dreams to wipe away a comment drenched in prejudicial assumptions? As we laugh at the naivety of Alan, a passionate professor, do we gloss over his inability to speak of people of color without euphemistic turns of phrase? And what about Martin? Can we ignore his inherent privilege and its impact on his professional status just because he does throughout his impassioned plea for correct grammar?

"This play exposes underlying fears that cause discrimination." says Schroeder. "It stirs up strong reactions - I am interested in listening to the audience's response. Theatre is art that highlights shared universality, how we are more alike than different. I hope the lasting impression of the production is one of personal reflection leading to growth and change."

Lindel Salow, Matt Siadak, and Puzzle Piece Associate Artistic Director Laura Heikkinen make up the cast. Like all Puzzle Piece productions, each performance of White People will be followed by a talk-back with the cast and creative team, offering the chance to discuss and debate the issues the play examines.

Tickets are $15 and performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 2pm. All performances will be held at The Abreact Performance Space located at 1301 West Lafayette Street Detroit, MI 48226. Please note: White People contains mature language and situations and is not recommended for those under the age of 18. Also there will be no performance on Halloween, but there will be a special Thursday performance on October 30th at 8pm.