Jody Shepard, left, reads the part of Lou and Kelly Dolejsi reads the part of enthusiastic activist Rosa in Robert F. Benjamin’s new short play ‘Activism Then and Now’. Courtesy photo

SENIOR ACTIVITY CENTERS/LALT NEWS RELEASE

Local playwright Robert F. Benjamin’s new short play “Activism Then and Now” addresses the question with humor and compassion. The community is invited to its staged reading, which will be twice: 1 p.m., Wednesday, April 10, at the Los Alamos Senior Activity Center and 1 p.m. , Thursday, April 11 at the White Rock Senior Activity Center.

The 12-minute intergenerational comedy will be followed by an audience talkback and Q&A with the cast and playwright. There is no charge for admission, though donations will be accepted. No reservations are necessary. 

In “Activism Then and Now,” inexperienced but enthusiastic activist Rosa (played by Kelly Dolejsi) quickly becomes frustrated with Lou’s (Jody Shepard) reluctance to sign a petition that she clearly agrees with. 

Lou’s response to Rosa’s rudeness confuses Rosa, who desperately needs petition signatures today. Their clash escalates as Lou reveals her own history with activism and learns about Rosa’s grandmother. Will either benefit by this dispute?

This performance marks the resumption of the Live Theater program, in partnership with the Los Alamos Little Theatre.