Photos: Experience THE GIVER Live In Black And White

From October 12-21, Outcry Youth Theatre will transport you to the future world of The Giver, adapted by Eric Coble from the Newberry Medal winning book by Lois Lowry. The play is performed by a cast of youth actors ages 9-14 at the Addison Theatre Centre's Studio Theatre.

A popular book to read in middle school classrooms, many of the actors in the show had read The Giver prior to beginning rehearsals for the play.

"Jonas is a character that has always inspired me ever since I first read the book. His emotions are very nuanced and raw, which is interesting to pursue in acting," said Matthew Gay, one of two actors alternating as the lead role of Jonas.

Jonas' world is perfect. Everything is under control and safe. There is no war or fear or pain. There are also no choices. Every person is assigned a role in the community. But when Jonas turns 12, he is chosen for special training from The Giver-to receive and keep the memories of the community. The Giver is the only person who holds the memories of real pain and real joy. Now Jonas will learn the truth about life-and the hypocrisy of his utopian world. Through this astonishing and moving adaptation, discover what it means to grow up, to grow wise, and to take control of your own destiny.

"The story of The Giver is seemingly simplistic, but the layers that are unveiled throughout Jonas's emotional progression show a complex and demented society underneath the perfection," added Matthew Gay. "This story and this character are very powerful, and being Jonas is both challenging and intriguing. The layers of the acting are unique and exciting for me to explore every day."

The Giver is directed by Jason Johnson-Spinos, who himself grew up with the book.

"It was a formative book for me as a child," Johnson-Spinos said. "It taught me to imagine worlds beyond our day-to-day reality, and I look forward to bringing this incredible world to life."

Tickets are on sale now at: https://www.outcrytheatre.com/the-giver.html