“What the Constitution Means to Me” promises laughter, not just politics

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - "What the Constitution Means to Me" is the title of a play taking center stage Thursday night in Santa Barbara for a four day run.

Despite the title, Director Matt Hawkins insists it is not a "political piece of theater" and is infused with humor.

"It's really moving and healing and joyful to be in a room and regardless of how you feel about politics, regardless of how you identify, what party or, if you don't doesn't matter," said Hawkins, during a promotional video clip. "It's a beautiful, amazing, joyful story."

The premise of the play is told through the eyes of a young woman and how she views the United States of America and, what she thought the constitution was. The performance is a University of Notre Dame production, written by Heidi Schreck.

If you, personally, are feeling the stress of national and world politics right now, this could be a great outlet. 

"I feel like I've learned a lot personally doing this show," said Grace Wilson, who plays the role of a student debater. "I feel like it's a call to action for our generation to wake up and get involved. And, students can see the show for free!"

"This is a production that's really important," said Nicola Bailey, who also portrays a student debater. "It's about important things and important topics and just being able to be a part of this has been amazing."

Each performance ends with a Q & A with local leaders. Beginning tonight, Santa Barbara County District Attorney Jon Savrnoch and former D.A. Joyce Dudley will serve as panelists along with Gwyn Lurie, CEO & Editor in Chief, Montecito Journal.

The Ensemble Theatre Company at the New Vic is the venue for "What the Constitution Means to Me." Five performances run through Sunday, August 18.

Click here to purchase tickets or for more information.