CAIN'S ROW to Tackle the Subject of Recidivsm at Matrix Theatre, 1/23-2/1

Cain's Row, the newest original script collectively written by Matrix Theatre Company's Writers Circle, examines important social issues related to crime and recidivism. The show runs two weekends from January 23 through February 1.

Friday and Saturday performances begin at 8 pm, with Sunday performances at 3 pm. All productions are presented at Matrix Theatre Company, located at 2730 Bagley in the heart of Detroit's Mexicantown. Ticket prices are $12 for general admission and $8 for students and senior citizens (65+) with proper ID. Group rates are available. For further information, or to purchase tickets, call 313 967 0599, or go to www.matrixtheatre.org.

Following two young brothers, Elijah and Alex, Cain's Row examines the impact that eight months of jail for possession of marijuana has on their lives. Will they be able to rebuild their lives, or will they find themselves, like 70% of previously incarcerated individuals in this country, in an endless cycle of recidivism? This thought-provoking workshop production is directed by Jarrett Thomas and features Maurizio Rosas Dominguez, Tamara Kamara, Amy Choudhury Martin, Chad Rasor, Emilio Rodriguez, and Justino Solis.

The Writers Circle developed the script for Cain's Row through a combination of research, interviews with community members, and feedback from staged readings. The play raises a series of critical

questions. Do current punishments fit their crimes? What role, if any, does society play in the cycle of repeat offenders? Are returning citizens, committed to changing their lives, given a fair chance at success after their release? Alex and Elijah face many obstacles when they return home after paying for their crime, and their struggles are based on real stories and experiences gathered from community members. Interactive audience discussions are planned after each performance.

About Matrix Theatre Company - Celebrating 23 years as a non-profit community-based theatre, the award-winning Matrix Theatre Company is located in southwest Detroit. By using the transformative power of theatre to change lives, build community and foster social justice, Matrix often creates everything from scratch, from puppets of all sizes to more than 130 original plays. It provides creative opportunities for children, youth, adults and elders, especially those in isolated or challenged communities, to become creators, producers, and audiences of theatre. For further information or to follow Matrix on Facebook, Twitter and Blogger, go to matrixtheatre.org. Matrix Theatre Company is sponsored, in part, by O'Brien Construction.

Matrix's Inclusive Theatre Initiative (ITI) strives to offer the transformative power of theatre to all. It aims to build a community for those with and without disabilities. It is a model of relating to people, rooted in the essential dignity and value of each person, offering ways to build deeper connections between people, places, and institutions.

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