The Great American Gunshow: Philadelphia is an interview-informed performance exploring American gun culture, gun violence and trauma, and the tension within our society over the “right of the people to keep and bear Arms.” Gunshow documents, maps, archives and reflects our collective experience through a theatrical presentation designed as a unique hybrid of a live performance event and a participatory forum, created by Team Sunshine Performance through 75+ hours of interviews with Philadelphians. Gunshow explores the humanity at the heart of the issues surrounding guns and invites audiences to engage in a more nuanced discussion about firearms in Philadelphia, by setting aside political polarization and investigating whether or not we can find a productive, hopeful future for our community. The Great American Gunshow: Philadelphia is part of a national project, with lead support provided by the William Penn Foundation.

A note about some changes to this event:There have been recent changes to the performance schedule. The changes are as follows: Aug 1st and 3rd are canceled; Aug 2nd is a public work-in-progress performance; Aug 7-9 are ticketed performances. If you are interested in joining us for the work-in-progress on Aug 2nd, please visit this page instead.

A Note About Participation:

As an audience member of Gunshow, you are invited to participate directly in the performance at your own discretion – you may choose not to participate without any reasoning required.

Content Considerations:

We recognize that it can be distressing and/or complex when discussing gun culture, gun violence and the trauma that often surrounds these topics. If this is the case, we encourage you to come and go from the space as you please.

Residents:

Reduced ticket prices are available for people living and/or working in the following zipcodes: 19124, 19132, 19134, 19140.

Gunshow: Philly was created in collaboration with the following partners: Asian Arts Initiative, ArtReach, IMPACT Services Corp., RawTools (Philly), YSRP, humanature, CeaseFirePA, FringeArts, Taller Puertorriqueño, Ping Chong + Co., Safe-Hub, Positive Movement Entertainment, John Pace, and Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble.

Creative Director: Makoto Hirano

Director: Alex Torra

Co-Creator/Performer: Jackie Soro

Community Performer: John Pace

Community Performer(s): Tony Royster & Positive Movement Drumline

Co-Creator: Benjamin Camp

Stage Manager: Kat Larson

Creative Producer/Production Manager: Katy Bagli

Set Designers: Tim Belknap, Matt Belknap, Alex DiBlasio

Lighting Designer: Bless Rudisill

Sound Designer: Eliana Fabiyi

Community Liaison: Donnell Powell