Matrix Theatre Company Sets Post-Show Events for BEST OF ENEMIES

Special post-show events inspired by the themes of racial prejudice and school desegregation in Mark St. Germain's Best of Enemies are planned for Matrix Theatre Company's production opening Friday, February 20 and running Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through Sunday, March 15. All events are free with the price of admission and take place on Friday, February 20, Sunday, March 1, and Sunday, March 8 at Matrix Theatre located at 2730 Bagley in the heart of Detroit's Mexicantown.

To celebrate opening night, patrons are invited to attend a reception immediately following the performance on Friday, February 20. Audiences have the opportunity to meet the artists of Best of Enemies while enjoying delicious food and drinks inspired by the show.

The first of two discussions takes place Sunday, March 1 after the 3 pm performance. Graig Donnelly, Director of Detroit Revitalization Fellows at Wayne State University, and Lauren Hood, co-founder of Deep Dive Detroit, lead an informative and interactive discussion with audiences entitled, "Displacement of Detroiters: Enough Room for Everyone?" Together, audiences take a close look at the changes happening within the City of Detroit and help unpack the complex issues present in our communities today.

The second discussion, "The Gray Area between Black and White: How Far Have We Come Since 1971?" takes place Sunday, March 8. How much has changed in 44 years? Some think the election of President Obama signified the beginning of a post-racial American society. Others think some Americans are just as a racist today as they have been for generations. A diverse group of panelists will discuss issues like racism, privilege, and race relations and search for solutions to these social problems.

Directed by Kelly Komlen, Best of Enemies takes place in the early 1970s, when Ann Atwater, an African-American civil rights activist, and CP Ellis, an Exalted Cyclops of the Durham Ku Klux Klan, found themselves on the same side of the public school integration debate and were appointed co-chairs of a committee to resolve problems surrounding the court-ordered school desegregation process. The play portrays how their initial distrust and hatred evolved into a deep friendship as they gradually found common ground and overcame their hatred for the good of the community.

All performances are presented at Matrix theatre Company, located at 2730 Bagley in the heart of Detroit's Mexicantown. Ticket prices range from $15 to $20. Group rates are available. For further information or to order tickets, go to www.matrixtheatre.org, or call 313-967-0599.

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