Performance Network Theatre Announces New Community Partner Program

Performance Network Theatre has created a revolutionary Community Partner Program to facilitate change by raising awareness about other non-profit organizations, such as Jewish Family Services, that work toward the issues presented in a current production. The mission of the Community Partner Program is to harness the energy and inspiration an audience feels after a live performance and funnel it back into the community. Performance Network is currently partnering with Jewish Family Services for "My Name is Asher Lev" adapted by Aaron Posner from the novel by Chaim Potok.

"My Name is Asher Lev" is the story of a young Jewish artist and his journey balancing his artistic expression and family values. A 20-year-old social service agency assisting around 3,000 cases per year, Jewish Family Services provides four key areas of clinical and counseling services, older adult services, employment and refugee services. JFS serves everyone in Washtenaw County and operates on the key philosophical principles of Judaism: "repairing the world, one person at a time" and "welcoming the stranger."

Performance Network highlights the work of the non-profit organization by including their information in every pre-show speech and directing audiences to brochures and materials for Jewish Family Services in the lobby before and after performances.

"We believe in our audiences capabilities to change the world, and we believe our work can inspire them to do so. By highlighting other non-profit organizations, we are able to provide a clear channel for our audiences to place their passion and enthusiasm," said Marissa Kurtzhals, Performance Network's Marketing Director.

In the last year, other organizations like Souls At War, The Jean Ledwith King Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan, and The Interfaith Council for Peace & Justice, have been featured as Community Partners.

"My Name is Asher Lev" adapted by Aaron Posner from the novel by Chaim Potok is running at Performance Network now through September 8. Tickets are available at performancenetwork.org or 734-663-0681.

Founded in 1981, Performance Network Theatre has grown from a fledgling company to Ann Arbor's resident professional theatre. The Network reaches 40,000 theatre patrons and children each year through the year-round Professional Series and the Children's Theatre Network. Performance Network also presents the Fireside New Play Festival and a series of classes on theatre-related topics. The Network provides uncompromising artistic leadership in the region and produces works that engage, challenge and inspire audiences and artists.

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