Slingshot Artist Productions Presents CLARENCE DARROW FOR THE DEFENSE, Now thru 8/30

Slingshot Artist Productions presents "Clarence Darrow" tonight, August 7 through 30 at the Aurora Fox Studio Theatre, 9900 E. Colfax Ave., Aurora 80010. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30.p.m.and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $25 Adult; $22 seniors and students and are available by calling 303-739-1970 or online at www.aurorafoxartscenter.org

A one-man play in two acts based on the Clarence Darrow for the Defense by Irving Stone is a reminiscence of the unpopular cases in which the famous attorney was involved, the events of his personal life and his opinions about contemporary events.

Clarence Darrow's work in the courtroom impacted the social, political and cultural fabric of the early part of the 20th century. Fighting for labor reform, racial equality, the teaching of evolution in our public schools and challenging the death penalty were the hallmarks of a brilliant legal career.

David Casiano co-founded the Loft Improvisational Players while attending Dowling College in the 60's. There he was introduced to the techniques of Viola Spolin, Peter Brooks, Stanislavski, Adler, and Uta Hagen. Later he attended Meisner acting classes and, at Nassau Community College, was trained in ballet, kung-fu and the discipline of Chinese theater which he later incorporated into his productions.

David spent 10 years as a union representative for the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) from 1971-1981. He defended against the mistreatment of employees (especially those who were gay) and won better working conditions for employees

Moving to Colorado in the 1980's, David has made his home in Parker for 25 years. As an educator he taught computers at Parker's Northeast Elementary School and Lutheran High School. Outgoing and impassioned, he became active in his community through committees and commissions. He was elected to Parker town council in 2002. Two years later, David ran for mayor and won. He was reelected in 2008.

David told us, "I first read the book, Clarence Darrow for the Defense by Irving Stone, in 1971 and had the pleasure of seeing Henry Fonda perform it on PBS in 1974. Shortly after, I put together his famous courtroom speeches as a historical piece and toured libraries. I am a student of American history and the thought of introducing this man who fought so hard for organized labor, as well as the underdog, drove me to perform the play."

He founded The Café La Papa E.T.C. (Experimental Theater Company) which made its debut on January 5, 2013 at the Parker Library with the performance of "The Zoo Story" by Edward Albee. Later that same year he performed "Clarence Darrow" for six weeks at the Deepspace Business and Event Center.

Need more Colorado Theatre News in your life?
Sign up for all the news on the Summer season, discounts & more...