This year, Southern Legal Counsel celebrates 37 years as a statewide nonprofit public interest law firm that represents those who are typically underrepresented and without access to the legal system. To celebrate their 37 years of service, the organization is putting on a performance of the American Foundation for Equal Rights and Broadways Impact’s 8. The staged reading at the Hippodrome Theatre on Sept. 21, 2015, depicts the trial that ruled California’s ban on same-sex marriage unconstitutional.
“8 is reuniting generations of Hippodrome Theatre artists who are dedicating their time and talents to give the audience of Gainesville this performance for one night, for one cause, to benefit thousands,” says Nell Page (BFA Theatre Performance 81’).
The piece marries social justice and theatre, which Page sees as a perfect union. “The world counts on our perspective as artists to keep seeing the world in a new light and challenging it,” she says.
The cast of 26 includes 15 members of the School of Theatre + Dance community, including current Associate Professor Tim Altmeyer and Malcolm Gets (BFA Theatre Performance 87’) as well as leaders and founders of the Hippodrome Theatre, local lawyers and Broadway actors.
“Everyone is donating time and putting in work to make this happen. I hope the audience will learn something, feel something and have a deeper understanding of the importance of equal rights,” says Page. “I am glad this group could come together to support this worthy cause.”
The one-night reading to benefit Southern Legal Counsel will take place on Monday, Sept. 21, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. at the Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Place, Gainesville, FL 32601. Tickets can be purchased through the Hippodrome box office at (352) 375-4477 or at www.thehipp.org. Student tickets are available for $10 with a current student ID.
