Something Happened in Our Town
Written by Cheryl L. West
Based on the book by Marianne Celano, PhD, ABPP; Marietta Collins, PhD; and Ann Hazzard, PhD, ABPP;
Illustrated by Jennifer Zivoin
Based on the acclaimed book, Something Happened in Our Town follows the journey of Josh and Emma after something terrible happens in their town. A Black man was killed by a white police officer, and they have real questions that deserve real answers. By following the conversations of these two families, one white and one Black, we discover that the answers to those questions don’t come easily. Award-winning playwright Cheryl L. West has layered this play with compassion, humor, and relatable characters. This show invites you to walk alongside Josh and Emma as they confront uncertainty within their own town and seek to plant the seeds of change in their community.
“It might be the most valuable theatergoing experience that many families with young children have had.” – Twin Cities Pioneer Press
“The beauty of the piece is that it gives parents a way to begin talking about these difficult realities with their kids.” – The Stages of MN
"The performance was a balanced and beautiful portrayal of the variety of positions, emotions, and interactions that these very serious topics have created. Excellently done."-CTC Audience Survey Response
Casting Breakdown: 12 characters
Estimated Run Time: 70 minutes
Audience Recommendation: 7+
Originally produced in Children's Theatre Company's 21-22 season
Photos from premiere production at Children's Theatre Company
