Your World View, Expanded

Being "the new guy" is always difficult. The uncertainty of place causes an unsettled mood and confusion about how to fit in, and then there's the almost unbearable longing for that which is familiar and comfortable. When you start a new job, these kinds of feelings are somewhat short-lived, but when you begin life in a new country, these inescapable emotions are bound to linger longer. The World According to Us provides a look into what new Americans experience when they arrive here. This production, presented at 6 p.m. at the Bastian Center for the Performing Arts on the St. Louis Community College-Forest Park campus (5600 Oakland Avenue), features Koffi's story, beginning with when he leaves Africa, along with a reading of Being Me: Life As a Refugee, a compilation of stories read by various St. Louisans. The International Play Ground, a program of the Center for Survivors of Torture & War Trauma (www.stlcenterforsurvivors.org), presents this evening's event, and tickets to attend cost $12.50 to $15 (call 314-533-4114) — but bring along some extra cash to further support the center and place bids at the silent auction.
Sat., June 5, 2010