Reviews: The Laramie Project at Duke Ellington School of the Arts
Written by Bella Nider of Woodson High School
Poignant, evocative, and deeply moving, Duke Ellington School of the Arts' interpretation of The Laramie Project is more than just a play—it's a haunting retelling of a true story.
Centered on the 1998 tragedy that took the life of Matthew Shepard, a gay college student at the University of Wyoming, the play captures the emotional fallout of his brutal kidnapping and beating at the hands of two classmates. Through a progression of raw, honest monologues—all drawn from real interviews conducted by writer Moisés Kaufman and members of the Tectonic Theater Project—the voices of Laramie's citizens flood Duke Ellington's theater, offering an intimate glimpse into a community grappling with grief, anger, and the urgent need for change.
The emotional weight of the production was handled with remarkable skill by its cast, as each actor played multiple roles within Laramie, Wyoming. Ambriah Jenkins portrayed Reggie Fluty, the policewoman who first responded to the scene where Matthew Shepard was found. Jenkins flawlessly captured the immense anguish faced by her character using well-placed voice cracks, trembling breaths, and an unwavering stage presence.
Julian Selman seamlessly brought to life three characters: Dr. Cantaway, the doctor who provided medical support for both the victim and the perpetrators; Father Roger Schmit, a local Catholic priest; and Jonas Slonaker, an openly gay Laramie resident. Selman successfully provided each of his characters with a distinct dialect and demeanor, honoring the solemnity and internal conflict of Dr. Cantaway while illustrating the force of nature that is Jonas Slonaker.
While the performances were front and center, the technical aspects of the production played an equally vital role in shaping the show's resonance. From the minimalist set design to the thoughtful lighting shifts that guided the audience through time and place, every detail felt intentional and impactful. Most notably, the original soundtrack composed by Emmett Justice, a student at Duke Ellington. Justice's guitar and bass added a chilling, atmospheric layer to the show that underscored the story's most vulnerable scenes without ever overwhelming them.
Duke Ellington School of the Arts' production of The Laramie Project was a fervent, impassioned, and thought-provoking experience that showcased the immense talent of the students involved. With standout performances, powerful direction, and a beautifully crafted score, the cast and crew brought raw honesty and compassion to every moment. The play was not only a testament to their craft, but also to the importance of telling stories that challenge, inspire, and stay with us long after the curtain falls.
Written by Clare Shacochis of Oakton High School
Welcome to Laramie, Wyoming - like no place on Earth.
The Laramie Project, written by members of the Tectonic Theater Project and its founder, Moisés Kaufman, tells the story of the aftermath of and reaction to the death of Matthew Shepard, a gay man living in Wyoming in 1998. Despite the death being denounced as a hate crime, the media attention surrounding the murder created a discussion on homophobia and prejudice among the small town citizens. A documentary theatre piece, the actors portray the people of Laramie interviewed by the Tectonic Theater Project.
Creating a soundtrack of the show was Emmett Justice and Scout Gould. Playing an acoustic guitar and electric guitar respectively, the instrumental tunes served to fully immerse the audience into the Laramie, as the haunting melodies encapsulated the old, small town atmosphere. Justice and Gould's original composition of music reflected and emphasized every emotion of the show, including a contemplative and captivating track that played over and breathtakingly beautiful dance performed by Isiah Alston-Gambrell.
The sound team, Aniya Davis and MJ Thomas, succeeded in enhancing the setting of the show. With each gust of the well-known Wyoming wind sweeping across the auditorium, the town of Laramie came to life. Davis and Thomas operated the eighteen live microphones used in the show smoothly, making sure that every voice was heard.
Playing the men who murdered Matthew Shepard were Amira Miller-Muno as Aaron McKinney and Divine Underwood as Russell Henderson. While Underwood showcased Henderson's guilt-ridden statement during his trial, Miller-Muno displayed the flippant attitude of McKinney during his confession. Underwood and Miller-Muno brought the nerves of the two perpetrators to life, from wiping off sweating palms to the shaking of their legs.
Entering as the play neared its end was Zerabruck Haile, portraying Dennis Shepard, Matthew's father. Haile delivered the statement given to the Court by Dennis about McKinney's fate with heartbreaking honesty. Despite the length and emotional weight of the monologue, Haile's intensity never wavered, giving a performance that was poignant and purposeful.
The production would not have been complete without the entire ensemble, acting as members of the Tectonic Theater Project and citizens of Laramie. Even though all of the actors played a variety of roles, every actor gave each of their characters distinct differences, skillfully switching between accents and mannerisms. The ensemble was committed to even the smallest of details, like Ambriah Jenkins' portrayal of policewoman Reggie Fluty, as she stuttered through sentences filled with horror over the sight of Matthew's death, or Doc O'Connor, played by Mekhi Lee, whose slow and swaggering stride could be picked out even in the background of a scene. The residents of Laramie felt truly lived in, making the emotional impact of the show grow stronger.
In an achingly authentic showcase of life, love, and loss, the cast and crew of The Laramie Project at Duke Ellington School of the Arts urged the audience to choose hope over hate.