“Good Kids” puts theatre spotlight on campus sexual assault

The Department of Theatre Arts and the Office of Compliance and Campus Climate have collaborated to bring the University of Pittsburgh’s presentation of “Good Kids” to SUNY New Paltz, Jan. 22, 23 and 24.

This new play, written by Naomi Iizuka, has been lauded as a vital dramatic exploration of the public aftermath of a sex crime and its cover-up.

The events of “Good Kids” take place after a high school party at which a girl was sexually assaulted while intoxicated. It is based on accounts of true events that have taken place at high schools and colleges across the nation in recent years.

While some of our Theatre Arts students will have the opportunity to assist in the production, the primary goal in bringing “Good Kids” to New Paltz is to invite the entire campus community to open and extend the dialogue on how instances of sexually motivated violence can impact us all.

“Live theatre has the ability to talk to audiences in different ways than other media; going to a theatrical event is a unique kind of visceral, true, first-hand experience,” said Ken Goldstein, associate chair of the Department of Theatre Arts. “The Department of Theatre Arts has made a concerted effort to channel that power in a positive way, by making sure that our seasonal and our tangential programming address social issues and start conversations about topics that are affecting our students.”

Those interested in attending a showing of “Good Kids” can reserve free general admission tickets by following this link.

Please note: This play contains mature themes, sexual situations and strong language.

Showings:
Friday, Jan. 22, 7 – 9 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 23, 2 – 4 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 23, 7 – 9 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 24, 2 – 4 p.m.

All performances take place at Parker Theatre.

An October 2014 article about “Good Kids” from American Theatre magazine, which includes an interview with the playwright, can be read by following this link.

For more information about the Department of Theatre Arts and about Compliance and Campus Climate at SUNY New Paltz, please visit us online.