Gossamer production sensitively explores issue of child abuse
A special theatrical performance is helping children and families address and discuss issues related to child abuse and foster care, with the help of social workers and staff from Metropolitan Family Services. “Gossamer” is being presented by Adventure Stage Chicago from November 7 through December 17, 2009 at Vittum Theater, 1012 North Noble Street, Chicago.
Gossamer is an adaptation of a novel by award-winning children’s author Lois Lowry. The story explores circumstances surrounding a young boy forced into foster care when his home life becomes too abusive. These circumstances will be handled with great delicacy and care for the characters on stage and the audiences that will be watching them.
Gossamer will be presented to as many as 5,000 Chicago Public School students over 18 weekday performances and at least 400 families over five weekend performance dates. Each performance is followed by a 15-minute moderated discussion in which audience members will be invited to ask questions and provide comments.
Social worker staff members from several Metropolitan Centers have volunteered to help to prepare Adventure Stage Chicago’s staff for answering questions that may arise, as well as to be on-site after various performances to handle questions from audience members in the theater’s lobby following the performances.
Gossamer is recommended for ages 8 and up (4th – 8th grades).
For more information about Gossamer and to purchase tickets, visit www.adventurestage.org.
About Metropolitan Family Services
Metropolitan Family Services (MFS) has been at the heart of Chicago’s city and suburban communities responding to the needs of families for more than 150 years. Through seven major community centers, their related locations and social policy advocacy, Metropolitan serves low-income and working-poor families facing a dynamic and ever-changing environment. As an integral part of each community we serve, we listen, actively participate and lead the way in helping families realize their amazing strength.