On Tuesday we told you about Girl Be Heard’s newest project, 9mm America. This theatrical production is written and performed by 10 young women who live in neighborhoods where they face gun violence daily. It is a powerful show that takes the viewer through the history of gun violence in America starting with the genocide of Native Americans. It asks the disturbing question, “When will it stop?”
This kind of inspirational, thought-provoking theater is to be expected from Girl Be Heard (formerly Project Girl). These young women tackle tough issues and never shy away from the dark truths that make others uncomfortable. Their mission is to “use theater as a vehicle to empower young women to become brave, confident, socially conscious leaders while exploring their own challenging circumstances.” Past shows have addressed identity (race, class, sexual orientation, ability), sex trafficking and civil and human rights.
Ashley Marinaccio is the Founder and Artistic Director of Girl Be Heard. An award winning activist and artist, she is, in her own words, “dedicated to creating theatre that challenges the status quo.” Recently, she was awarded the Lucille Lortel Women’s Visionary Award by the League of Professional Theatre Women for her work with Girl Be Heard. The award is given to women and organizations performing theatre outreach, development and education work outside the traditional parameters of production.
We congratulate Ashley on receiving this important and prestigious award, and look forward to our joint project with Girl Be Heard for AntiquityNOW Month. With the help of these incredible young women, we will debut a show in May 2014 that brings to life the voices of ancient women. Stay tuned to our website for updates on the project and visit the Girl Be Heard site to make a donation that will help them take 9mm America to schools and communities in need.
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