Play to address sensitive topic

The Sweetwater Board of Cooperative Educational Services and the WWCC Performing Arts Department, with assistance from the Episcopal Suicide Prevention Connection, will present “Chimes,” an original one-act play by Rock Springs resident Donovan Rawlings Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the WWCC Theater.

“Chimes” was commissioned by the Rev. Bernadine Craft to emphasize that September is Suicide Prevention Month; the play highlights some of the reasons adults make the decision to end their lives. Craft chairs the statewide Suicide Prevention Connection, which seeks to provide a variety of educational and awareness resources addressing the tragic issue of suicide.

“When I was first approached by Dr. Craft to write this play,” Rawlings said. “I was deeply honored. She gave me an opportunity to join with the Rock Springs community to create something I hope will be significant, not only to those who are so troubled as to contemplate suicide, but something for all of us who have been affected by the suicide or attempted suicide of those we know and love.”

‘“Chimes” was not easy to write, but when it came together, it became something of a force on its own. My only real hope is that anyone seeing it and feeling that their only option is to die, will pause just long enough to realize that dying is not the last option they have.” Craft said.

Craft calls suicide a “permanent solution to temporary problems.” She hopes those viewing the play will recognize that the tragedy of suicide knows no boundaries, but rather is an epidemic affecting us all.

“Chimes” is a one-act play with all the roles played by Sweetwater County residents: Bernadine Craft, Bob Mizel, Christina Magagna, Leah Lassise, John Prokos, Josh Wentz and Donovan Rawlings.

“It really is the perfect cast,” Rawlings said. “Every one of us has been touched by a suicide, or an attempted suicide with someone within our family and/or friends. Their portrayals are so powerful, and are just wonderful to watch.”

Craft discussed the fact that Wyoming continues to have one of the highest suicide rates in the U.S.; an attempt to address this issue led to last year’s formation of a partnership with the Wyoming Prevention Management Organization and the Episcopal Suicide Prevention Connection. The goal is to ensure that all Wyoming residents, no matter how remote their location, have access to resources, training and help. “Chimes” will be videotaped and made available on the Diocesan website for use as a resource designed to stimulate discussion.

“No one should feel alone,” Craft said.

“This piece will give you chills. I wanted to do this work to show our community just how close suicide can be to each of us,” Wentz said.

There will be a question and answer session following the play. There will be no charge for admission and all are invited to attend.

 

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