KENT STATE STARK’S “26 PEBBLES” INITIATES TIMELY DISCUSSION ABOUT GUN VIOLENCE, PREVENTION Play based on Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, panel discussions to facilitate conversation Kent State University at Stark Theatre will hold its final production of the academic year, “26 Pebbles”, a docudrama that incorporates verbatim interview excerpts from Newtown, Connecticut, residents recounting the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. Opening April 13, the cast will take to the campus’ stage at the Fine Arts Theatre, 6000 Frank Ave. NW. Directed by Kent State Stark Associate Professor of Theatre and Theatre Director Brian Newberg, “26 Pebbles” transports audiences to Newtown months after the massacre. Playwright Eric Ulloa’s work delves into the aftermath of unthinkable tragedy and the resulting push forward toward healing. The theatre department has teamed up with Counseling Services to provide mental health resources and facilitate panel discussions in conjunction with the theatrical production. “As Stark County’s public university, we take seriously our responsibility to not only educate the community, but to be an ever-present resource,” said Denise Seachrist, Ph.D., dean and chief administrative officer at Kent State Stark. “Along with presenting this significant play, our campus also has organized corresponding mental-health awareness events. As community leaders, we are here to provide support wherever – and whenever – we can.” Kent State Stark is collaborating with Phoenix Rising, CommQuest, StarkNAMI and Sandy Hook Promise, which will have representatives available during performances. The goal is to provide resources and spur healthy conservation about gun violence and prevention. All events are open to the public. Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. April 13 and 14, and at 2 p.m. April 15. The show also will take place at 7:30 p.m. April 20 and 21, and at 2 p.m. April 22, which will be an ASL-interpreted performance. A pre-show panel discussion will be held from 4:30 to 6 p.m. April 21; a post-show talkback will take place immediately following the April 22 performance in the Fine Arts Theatre. Tickets for the show can be purchased online at www.kent.edu/stark/26-pebbles, by phone at 330-244- 3348 or in person at the box office in the Fine Arts lobby. Will call opens one hour prior to performances. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for senior citizens and non-KSU students. Tickets are free to all Kent State students with student IDs.