Exclusive Post Show Q&A with Dennis Shepard


The Merseyside Academy of Drama is thrilled to welcome Dennis Shepard, the father of Matthew Shepard, for a post-show Q&A after the matinee performance of The Laramie Project on Sunday, September 3rd at 2pm. This rare event provides a unique opportunity for the audience to engage with Dennis Shepard, a devoted advocate for parental love and the rights of LGBT individuals.

Dennis Shepard's story is one of strength, compassion, and unwavering love. As the father of Matthew Shepard, a young gay student who tragically lost his life to a hate-motivated murder in Laramie, Wyoming in 1998, Dennis Shepard has tirelessly advocated for the rights and acceptance of LGBT individuals. His advocacy has centered on the importance of parental love and understanding for LGBT children. His commitment to fostering empathy, awareness, and equal treatment of LGBT crime victims and their loved ones has made him an inspiring figure in the fight against hate and discrimination.

The Laramie Project is a profoundly poignant work of theatrical art that delves into the heart and soul of Laramie, Wyoming, a small town catapulted into the harsh glare of the national spotlight following the tragic death of Matthew Shepard, a young gay student brutally murdered in 1998. Crafted by Moisés Kaufman and the Tectonic Theater Project, this compelling play is a tapestry of over 200 interviews conducted with Laramie residents in the aftermath of the hate crime. It offers a deeply affecting exploration of a community grappling with grief, prejudice, and the quest for justice in a time of incomprehensible tragedy.

The play itself serves as a powerful reminder that despite the challenges and tragedies that life may present, communities have the potential to come together, grow, and heal. *The Laramie Project* underscores the importance of empathy, understanding, and tolerance in creating a more inclusive society. The Laramie Project takes us on a riveting, emotional journey, expertly woven from the real words and diverse voices of the people of Laramie. The stories unfold to reveal a community that is complex, conflicted, and ultimately, transformed.




Dennis Shepard's participation in the Q&A session is an exceptional opportunity to delve deeper into the themes explored in The Laramie Project. His personal experiences and advocacy efforts will undoubtedly shed light on the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for change. As a symbol of unwavering love and strength, Dennis Shepard's insights will add a layer of emotional depth to an already powerful narrative. The session, scheduled to begin at 4:30 pm after the matinee performance on September 3rd, promises to provide deeper insights into the themes of the play, the personal journey of Dennis Shepard, and the enduring relevance of these topics today.

Tickets for the show and the Q&A session are priced at £14.50 and can be booked through the Hope Street Theatre website (www.hopestreettheatre.com).

 

Admin: Sam Matthews

Edited by, Christopher Woodward.