Natural Shocks: Theatre Activism to End Gun Violence

EBP will participate later this month in a national campaign of theatre activism to end gun violence by presenting a staged reading of Lauren Gunderson’s new play, Natural Shocks.

Based on Hamlet’s “to be or not to be” soliloquy, the play features a woman waiting out a tornado in her basement. As the storm rages on, the audience bears witness to her stories and secrets, and learns the intimate details of her relationship with guns.

To raise awareness about gun violence on the 19th anniversary of the Columbine school shooting and the National School Walkout, Gunderson is waiving the royalties for readings the weekend of April 20, 2018. Readings are planned in 27 states with proceeds set to benefit organizations like Everytown For Gun Safety and Moms Demand Action.

EBP will stage a reading on Friday, April 20, 7pm, at Philly PACK (233 Federal Street). Tickets are on sale now and will be available at the door. Proceeds will benefit…

A panel discussion on gun violence in Philadelphia will follow the reading.

Gunderson is no stranger to theatre activism having previously waived royalties for performances of her play The Taming on Inauguration Day 2017. Named America’s Most Produced Playwright by American Theatre magazine in 2018, Gunderson has had more than 20 play produced.