Katie Mae Miller and Lauren Braun rehearse for Stop Kiss.
A romance for Valentine’s Day, with a message – Stop Kiss, written by Diana Son and directed by Clarissa McNamara, opens at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10, in the Xperimental Theatre and runs nightly through February 14.
"An unspoken love, Stop Kiss is a love story that endures violence and judgment and asks if there is still hope," said McNamara. The story follows two women in search of something more. "It is a journey of self-discovery."
She believes the theme and content will reach everyone in the audience and open their hearts. "Judgment can have serious negative effects and it takes strength to overcome hate. I hope the audience will understand what judgment can do to people after watching Stop Kiss."
The power of theatre to deliver social change intrigues McNamara. "Theatre can help bring about change and expose people to new ideas in a non-threatening and entertaining way."
Stop Kiss won a GLADD (Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) Media Award for Best New York Production. "I hope many of our LGBTQ community will come to the show and support the message," McNamara added.
McNamara, who has graced the Adams State stage in a lead or key supporting role in many major productions, enjoyed being a director: "I love directing but my heart is still in acting."
Originally from Cortez, Colorado, McNamara will graduate in December 2015 and hopes to "make it somewhere in theatre."
The Box Office opens February 2 for Stop Kiss tickets. Individual tickets are $8 for general public, $7 for seniors and students, and free to Associated Students and Faculty with current Adams state identification. Due to mature content, the Theatre Program recommends the show for audience members 16 and over. To reserve tickets call 719-587-8499.
