Matrix Teens Explore Overcoming Barriers in Newest Original Production

The Matrix Teen Company is pleased to present their newest original play, Audition Awakening, which focuses on three teens who work toward achieving their dreams despite the challenges they face. Audition Awakening runs April 7 - 9 on Friday at 8 PM, Saturday at 3 PM and 8 PM, and Sunday at 3 PM. Ticket prices are $12 for adults and $8 for students, seniors, military service members, and veterans. All performances take place at Matrix Theatre Company, located at 2730 Bagley Street in the heart of Detroit's Mexicantown. For more information, visit www.matrixtheatre.org or call (313) 967-0999 ext. 3.

The Matrix Teen Company's newest play centers on an ambitious dancer, a shy singer, and a confident rapper. Three Detroit teens want nothing more than to perform at their high school talent show. As they each work to prepare their auditions, problems at home and school threaten to derail them from achieving their dreams. Will these young artists overcome their challenges in time for their auditions, or will the barriers they face stand in the way of their success?

"The company began this writing process because they recognized the extreme hurdles that they often face in accomplishing their goals," said Amy Thomas, Matrix's Director of Education and co-director of Audition Awakening. "The teens will take on all design and technical responsibilities in addition to performing, which is different from their previous productions. We are excited that company members had the opportunity to reflect on how they will excel in their production roles, and we look forward to guiding them along the way. They will learn to be confident not only in front of the audience, but while designing and running the show too."

The Matrix Teen Company will bring their production to life by performing all acting, design, crew, and stage management roles. Members of the Matrix Teen Company are William Bouier, Gabby Clayton, Autumn Johnson, Courtney Miller, Yasir Muhammad, Denasia Robinson, Alondra Vazquez, Angelita Vlasic, Briauna Willis, and April Wilson. The production is directed by Amy Thomas and Megan Wright.

About Matrix Theatre Company

Celebrating more than 25 years as a nonprofit, community-based theatre, Matrix Theatre Company is located in southwest Detroit and changes lives, builds community and fosters social justice through theatre. Go to matrixtheatre.org for further information.

About Matrix Teen Company

The Matrix Teen Company consists of high school students from the Detroit area who write, produce, and act in a full season of plays each year which draws attention to crucial community issues.