HOME OF THE BRAVE At HTY Explores Challenges Faced By Military Families

"You have to make a home wherever you are. You have to know what it means to be brave."

There are close to 14,000 military dependents in Hawaii public schools, children who may have lived around the world, who might start at a new school late in the second semester, who make best friends and fall in love with Hawaii and then have to leave. Home of the Brave, a new play at Honolulu Theatre for Youth artfully depicts the experiences and friendships of these children who are often called upon to be brave.

Over a period of two and a half years, the creative team on this project visited schools near or on military bases in Hawaii and in San Diego, listening to hundreds of kids share stories about their lives. "Every story was different. Some were funny, some were heartbreaking, some were so simple and beautiful that we were choking back tears. We were so humbled to hear these children's experiences," said playwright Lee Cataluna. The team also heard from teachers, parents, veterans, school counselors and military liaisons about the unique circumstances children from military families face and the kind of strength it takes to endure and thrive.

Developed as a co-commission with La Jolla Playhouse, Home of the Brave was inspired by these heartfelt stories of frequent moves, changing schools, having to make new friends and missing a parent who is deployed on active duty. Home of the Brave shows the loyalty, humor, fierce pride - as well as the hardship - that comes with being part of a family that is serving our nation.

Home of the Brave written by Lee Cataluna, directed by Eric Johnson. Featuring Sean-Joseph Choo, Claire Fallon, Jason Lee Hoy, Brandon Karrer, and Christina Uyeno. Set, Prop, Light Design Brian Gilhooly; Costume Design Iris Kim; Composer and Sound Design Paul James Prendergast

Home of the Brave opens at Honolulu Theatre for Youth Friday, February 8 @ 7:00 pm, and plays Saturdays, February 9, 16, and 23 @ 4:30 pm, and Saturday February 23 @ 11:00 am Sensory Friendly/ASL Performance. Performances are at Tenney Theatre on the grounds of The Cathedral of St. Andrew. It is ideal for ages 7 and up. Single tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for youth (18 and under) and $15 for seniors (over 60). HTY is a Blue Star Theatre; military discounts are available. HTY For Every Family Pay-What-You-Can performance will be Saturday February 23 @11:00 am. For more information, to receive a season brochure, order tickets to a show or learn more about HTY's educational programming call 839-9885. Tickets may also be ordered online at www.htyweb.org.