Did you know that Detroit is home to the second largest theatre district in the United States only behind New York City? It’s not about the size of our theatre district, but the passion and uniqueness in each venue that truly makes Detroit’s cultural ecosystem so vibrant. This past Sunday (February 23, 2014), Challenge Detroit had the opportunity to experience one of Detroit’s community-based theatre productions.

The Matrix Theatre in Southwest Detroit uses the transformative power of theatre to change lives, build community, and foster social justice. As a cultural anchor, the Matrix Theatre Company provides inclusive programs, facilities, and performances with the aim at being a national model for socially engaged, community-based theatre productions, playwriting, and education.

Our visit took us for a special performance in the intimate theater (it only seats about 50 so it was mostly fellows!) featuring two-actresses in Collected Stories. Collected Stories explores the relationship between Ruth, a renowned writer and college professor, and her student-turned-protégé and assistant, Lisa. Over the course of six years, Ruth mentors Lisa away from her insecurities and into becoming a successful writer. The excitement in the production lies in the audience’s interpretation of relationships and thoughts regarding creative freedom. The ambiguous ending leaves us on the edge of our seats, leaving us to ponder the possibilities of creative justice.

SEE ALSO: The Importance of Mentors by Fellow Corissa Leveille

It was a great experience to see talented actors perform in the intimate Matrix Theatre. We were even able to hear from the director and cast in an exclusive after-show talk back. The show is running until March 16, so catch it live while you still can!

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