The modern adaptation of Euripides' classic Greek tragedy will be followed by a conversation between community leaders, members of law enforcement, victims and perpetrators of gun violence, and the general public
Theater of War Productions and New York City Public Artist in Residence (PAIR) Bryan Doerries present the anti-gun violence play "Hercules in Brownsville" on Saturday, October 7 at the Van Dyke Amphitheater.
The dramatic reading from the classical Greek play The Madness of Hercules features acclaimed actors Paul Giamatti and Chinasa Ogbuagu alongside Councilmember Jumaane Williams, and Commanding Officer of the 73rd Precinct Rafael Mascol.
Hercules in Brownsville, is the modern adaptation of Euripides' classic greek tragedy, a play about a vengeful man who murders his wife and children with an invincible weapon. Under the direction of Bryan Doerries, actors Paul Giamatti and Chinasa Ogbuagu, Commander Rafael Mascol and Councilmember Williams, an outspoken advocate against gun violence, will lead through the program. The reading is followed by a conversation between community leaders, members of the law enforcement community, victims and perpetrators of gun violence and the general public on the impact of gun violence on individuals, families and the Brownsville community at large.
Through theater-based projects and the presentation of dramatic readings, Theater of War Productions aims to inspire dialogue and to confront topics such as combat-related psychological injury, end-of-life care, police and community relations, prison reform, gun violence, domestic violence, sexual assault and substance abuse. The company was co-founded in 2009 by Bryan Doerries, artistic director, and Phyllis Kaufman, who served as producing director from 2009 to 2016. All events are free to the public and feature leading film, theater and television actors. Notable artists who have led readings include Blythe Danner, Adam Driver, Jesse Eisenberg, Giancarlo Esposito, Jake Gyllenhaal, Alfred Molina, Frances McDormand, Tamara Tunie, Samira Wiley, Jeffrey Wright, among others.
The event is co-produced by the Brooklyn Public Library as part of its mission to serve as a community resource and safe haven for public discourse throughout Brooklyn and the city, and with the support of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation.
Hercules in Brownsville
When: Saturday, October 7, 2017, 5:00 - 7:00 pm
Where: Van Dyke Amphitheater, 392 Blake Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11212
Admission is free. To reserve seats, please visit www.herculesinbrooklyn.eventbrite.com.
