Speaking Out

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. You may believe that domestic violence doesn't affect you, and chances are, it doesn't. But there's a distinct possibility that someone you know suffers in silence — there are victims of domestic abuse in all walks of life, and they often keep their plight a secret. October's awareness campaign is designed to spur people to talk about the roots of the problem and to help victims find the strength to escape the cycle of violence. Playwright David J. Harris (A Horse of a Different Color) provides a voice for those aren't ready to talk yet with his latest play, Breakfast in Bed: The Voices of Domestic Violence. Inspired by interviews with survivors of abuse, Breakfast in Bed features a diverse cast who addresses the audience directly about what happened, why it happened — and how they broke free. The Monarch Theatre Project presents Breakfast in Bed: The Voices of Domestic Violence, featuring Denise Thimes (pictured), at 7:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday (October 12 through 14) at the Sheldon Concert Hall (3648 Washington Boulevard; 314-534-1111 or www.thesheldon.org). Tickets are $25 to $35, and a portion of the proceeds are donated to local domestic abuse shelters.
Oct. 12-14, 2009