“The Butterfly Effect” Stands Against Bullying

"The Butterfly Effect" onstage at Orcas Center this weekend

Orcas Center is presenting “The Butterfly Effect,” a play inspired by a worldwide movement of anti-bullying video messages and adapted from local stories by Janet Brownell and directed by Jake Perrine.

“This production is a direct response to the epidemic of gay teen suicides across the country,” says director Jake Perrine.

“It is a message of hope from our gay island elders to our youth that “it does get better” after the awkward trials of high school. If the faith of even one person seeing it is restored, or one person reconsiders bullying someone else for being different, we will have succeeded in our aspirations. I think anyone who feel “different” could benefit from a vote of confidence at that age.

“As well, once we understand that those who are “different” among us are people, too – three-dimensional people with hopes, fears, and dreams like anyone else – perhaps we can begin to accept difference and empathize with it, rather than judge and punish it. At the end of the day, we are all ‘different’.”

Introductions to the play will be given by leaders in the community including Senator Kevin Ranker and former Seattle police chief Norm Stamper. Cast members include: Christopher Evans, Diansa Anuenue, Kim Secunda,  Ladd Lindholm, Suzanne Olson, Deborah Sparks, Jim Schaffer-Bauck, Jules Mann, Nate Feder, Angelica Mayo, Rene Sturk and Conrad Wrobel.

“The Butterfly Effect” is rated PG 15 for language and content. Not appropriate for students under 15 years old It will be shown at the OffCenter Stage at Orcas Center this Friday through Sunday, June 1-3, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 ($2 off for Orcas Center members), STUDENTS FREE.

“The Butterfly Effect” is sponsored by the Orcas Island Education Foundation (OIEF) and the Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Transgender (LGBT) Organization.