Press Release Template for Reading of Bang Bang You’re Dead

FOR RELEASE

[Date]

[Your city, state]

[ your school name] Drama Club and Thespian Troup is proud to present a reading of William Mastrosimone's chilling play Bang Bang, You're Dead as part of Washington State Thespians Theatre for Social Action Event on [date] at [location and time.] The readings coincide with the national school walkout planned on Friday, April 20, 2018, the anniversary of the Columbine shooting.

High Schools across Washington State will be holding readings of the play during the week of May 16th, 2018. While the piece is performed as a play reading, the writing is unbelievably powerful. You will not be disappointed, and you will want to hug everyone you see afterward.

[your school’s name] Drama Club and Thespian Troupe are joining other state high school theatre programs to encourage thoughtful social discourse on the rise of school shootings America with a post-play discussion moderated by [high school principal? School counselor? Drama Coach? Thespian Troupe President?]

Bang Bang You’re Dead is strongly based on the events surrounding the shootings at Thurston High School in Springfield, Oregon on May 21, 1998, and experiences the playwright’s son had with threats of violence at his school.

The questions we must concern ourselves with are

How far have we come in 20 years?Where do we go from here? What is Social Action?

What can I do to make a difference?

The play tells the story of Josh, a bright 9th Grade student, who threatens his school community and carries out his threat, killing five students in the cafeteria. While in jail, Josh is tormented by the spirits of his victims. The play raises awareness about school shootings, bullying, and suicide, as well as society’s expectations for boys, conflicts with parents, and dealing with anger. The play demands respect for life and its precious and fleeting nature.
No tickets are required; just arrive at the theatre before [start time.]

APPROPRIATE VIEWING AGE: MIDDLE SCHOOL AND OLDER, DUE TO THE DISTURBING SUBJECT MATTER ADDRESSED IN THE PLAY.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact [teacher/drama coach email address]

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