READING — Chief David Clark and Director Erica Maillet report that the Reading Police Department and the Reading Coalition for Prevention & Support are encouraging community members to take in a new play that documents a family’s struggles with substance use disorder.
WHEN:
Wednesday, Oct. 30, from 6 to 8 p.m.
WHERE:
Parker Middle School, 45 Temple St., Reading, MA
WHAT:
The Reading Police Department and Reading Coalition for Prevention & Support, in collaboration with 2nd Act and Prevention Play Productions, will present “I’ll Never Do That,” a play about the impacts of substance use, performed by actors with lived experience with substance abuse.
The play is an intimate story that takes you behind closed doors, offering a glimpse into one family’s journey as they grapple with the challenges of addiction. Amidst the struggles and heartache, glimmers of hope and resilience shine through, revealing the complexities of this “family disease.” Featuring actors in recovery, this poignant yet heartwarming performance will evoke empathy, spark conversation, and inspire action. Please join the 1.1 million audience members who have experienced the power of 2nd Act’s evidence-based prevention programs.
“We invite all community members who are 12 years of age or over to join us for this play, which will shed light on the horrible truths of substance abuse and how it impacts families,” said Chief Clark. “There are valuable lessons and truths to be learned from this play, and we are grateful to 2nd Act and Prevention Play Productions for bringing this production to Reading.”
“In most portrayals of addiction, we see the downfall. 2nd Act performers portray not just the fractures in family relationships caused by addiction but also the healing,” said Director Maillet.
Performers from 2nd Act will host a question and answer session following the presentation of the play.
About The Reading Coalition
The Reading Coalition for Prevention & Support, formerly known as RCASA, was established in 2006 in Reading. The coalition started as a town, police, school, and community initiative focused on improving collaboration and reducing substance use. Today the coalition, funded under the Reading Police Department, offers programs and services that focus on substance misuse prevention and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health. Visit the Coalition at https://www.readingma.gov/763/Reading-Coalition-for-Prevention-and-Sup. Follow the Coalition on Instagram, like it on Facebook
