The theater must always be a safe and special place. – Donald Trump

If theatre is a reflection of the world we live in, it’s also a reflection of the world we hope to live in. – Jordan Tannahill, Theatre of the Unimpressed

Now I enjoy a Trump-ism as much as the next person, but – aside from the inclusion of clearly-labeled emergency exits – safety isn’t often what I’m seeking at a night out at the theatre. I hope you’re here today not out of obligation, but because you’re genuinely curious about what we’re about to share with you. And curiosity can be dangerous. Curiosity means: I’m prepared for anything, even if it’s not what I want to hear. Even if it upsets me. Even if I fundamentally disagree. Even if it challenges something I’ve believed for as long as I can remember.

The trial of Jian Ghomeshi (who does not appear in this play #sorrynotsorry) was a turning point in the way we understand sexual violence and how sexual assault cases are handled by the criminal justice system. It has been a source of controversy, discussion, awakening, and activism. This production is our contribution to the conversation. Both a reflection of the way things are, and the way things could be.

Huge thank you to my partner-in-crime Amelia Griffin, our phenomenal cast and behind-the-scenes team, our partner organizations, our supportive families, and especially David Whiteley, who first saw potential in this project.

– Jessica Ruano, January 2017

Cast, from left to right: (back) Mekdes Teshome, Marc-André Charette, Gabrielle Lalonde; (front) Leah Archambault, Annie Lefebvre, Emmanuel Simon.

Photo by Andrew Alexander