Dramatic, True

The arts are not only important for a society rich with culture and creativity, but they also can serve as an integral part of the healing process. The varieties of artistic expression are just that — ways for people to express themselves when simple conversation won't do. For some, strength can come through painting or photography; for others, acting or writing provides an outlet. To witness catharsis happening onstage, head over to the Bastian Center for the Performing Arts on the St. Louis Community College-Forest Park campus (5600 Oakland Avenue) for IPG Shows Some Love. "IPG" stands for International Playground, which is a performing-arts group for refugee teens and other young people who are new to the United States. This evening of theater begins at 7 p.m. and features a performance of Love Stories, a play written and performed by the IPG kids as well as My Stories, My Past, a series of dramatic readings of local refugees' tales by actors and other folks around town. Attending the show costs $15, and all proceeds benefit the Center for Survivors of Torture and War Trauma (www.stlcenterforsurvivors.org).
Sat., April 4, 2009