In October 1998, 21-year-old college student Matthew Shepard was viciously beaten and left for dead in Laramie, Wyoming. Shepard’s death was the result of a hate crime. Two years later, “The Laramie Project” honored his memory in a stage production about both the community and national reaction.
The play focuses on Shepard’s life and the impact his death had on Wyoming, as well as the national discourse on hate crimes. NCC is keeping the story alive with their production of this play for the 20th anniversary of Shepard’s’ death.
Upasna Barath, ’19, decided to finish her last year at NCC by playing a part in telling this story. Over the summer, she and the rest of the cast took a trip to Laramie to gain some core information for the show.
“We went there for field research to get a better understanding of the environment and the community. We wanted to know how the people lived, talked, walked, etc. To help us have something to reference as we do this show. Why make up the actions of these people when we can see it for ourselves?” said Barath.
She also shared her motivation for the show. “This play is about social justice and showing the importance without saying that it’s important. The message is clear and even though this event happened so long ago the topic is still relevant.”
Samantha Blankenship, ’21, is also doing her part in prepping for this show. “I do not have a huge part in the show, but I don’t care. There was a chance to be a part of this production and I did everything in my heart to be a part of it. Just the little things can make this situation better and if that means being an angel for a short scene then so be it,” says Blankenship.
“The Laramie Project” will be in Meiley-Swallow Hall at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 4-6 and at 2 p.m. on Oct. 6-7.
