Gitana Productions, a local nonprofit that advocates global healing through the arts, is performing a one-act play titled “New World” this weekend as part of the St. Louis Arts Experience. The play is based on the lives of three St. Louis women who are also refugees from Bosnia, the Republic of Congo and Afghanistan.
Playwright Patton Chiles did extensive interviews in the local refugee community before writing the play. It will be performed Oct. 1 and 2 at the Nahed Chapman New American Academy on Grand Blvd.
Related: For one 14-year-old Kenyan refugee, Gitana Productions’ ‘Living the Dream’ is ‘everything’
Joining St. Louis on the Air on Wednesday to discuss the play were Cecilia Nadal, the founder of Gitana Productions, and Jessica Alvarado, an actress in the play.
"St. Louis has become a point of destination for many immigrants coming in," Nadal said. "We know there are large numbers but it is also true that many people don't know the stories of the women and the refugees who are coming in. We thought that was very important to share with the community as we grow. It is one thing to get refugees and immigrants here, it is another make them comfortable. The only way comfort can come is with compassion; you've got to know their stories."
Related Event
What: Gitana Productions presents “New World”
When: Saturday, Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 2 at 3 p.m.
Where: Nahed Chapman New American Academy, Gallaudet Bldg. at 1616 S. Grand, St. Louis, 63104
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