Morris Performing Arts Center to Take Part in THE GHOSTLIGHT PROJECT

On January 19th, 2017 at 5:30 p.m., Michiana theatres, performing arts centers, educational theatre programs, and individual theatre artists will gather in front of the Morris Performing Arts Center to launch "The Ghostlight Project."

This event will coincide with similar gatherings across the country. The nation's theatre community -- from Broadway and regional theaters to high school, college and community theaters -- will come together on the eve of the Presidential Inauguration to join in a simultaneous action, together creating "light" for challenging times ahead.

Inspired by the tradition of leaving a "ghost light" on in a darkened theater, artists and communities will pledge to stand for and protect the values of inclusion, participation, and compassion for everyone -- regardless of race, class, religion, country of origin, immigration status, (dis)ability, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

According to the project's steering committee, "The Ghostlight Project aims to create brave spaces that will serve as lights in the coming years. The project aims to activate a network of people across the country working to support vulnerable communities. It is a pledge for continued vigilance and increased advocacy."

All area artists are invited to gather at The Jon R. Hunt Plaza in front of The Morris Performing Arts Center on Thursday, January 19thpromptly at 5:30 p.m. Participants are encouraged to bring a "ghost light" of their choosing. Lights can include, but are not limited to, flashlights, lanterns, cell phone lights, whatever participants can make or find. Creativity is encouraged! Everyone at the event should have their light source OFF when they arrive. At a specific point in the ceremony, participants will be asked to turn on their lights simultaneously.

Organizations and representatives at the local gathering include: South Bend Civic Theatre; Michiana Playmakers; The Acting Ensemble; Stage for Change, United Youth Theatre; PickapArt Theatre; Elkhart Civic Theatre; the Morris Performing Arts Center; the Notre Dame Department of Film, Television, and Theatre; Dean Marvin Curtis, the Ernestine M. Raclin School of the Arts at IU South Bend; Meghan Beard, Clay High School Visual and Performing Arts Magnet Coordinator ; the Robinson Shakespeare Company; Shakespeare at Notre Dame; and many more.

For more, visit www.theghostlightproject.com.