Using the Arts to Challenge Hate, Create Community: Laramie Lives in Lowell

Abstract

SUMMARY This paper describes a production of Moises Kaufman's The Laramie Project staged at a northeast public urban university and a related educational campaign. Project goals were to discourage homophobia, encourage dialogue, and increase visibility and acceptance of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered students. The project was produced by a coalition including student groups, academic departments, and administrative units. A variety of indices show the play was immediately successful for the audience and community and had a deeper impact on cast members and planners. Collaborative relationships spanning interpersonal, cultural, and political boundaries and the use of the arts for social change were key factors in the program's success.