(PRINCETON, NJ) -- McCarter Theatre Center, a renowned cultural institution, and Crossroads4Hope, a leading cancer support non-profit organization, present the return of "Our Cancer Stories" for its third year. This innovative and heartfelt collaboration brings together the healing power of the arts and the indomitable human spirit in a performance that honors the stories of individuals affected by cancer. For the first time, this moving theatrical experience will be performed in person at the McCarter Theatre Center’s Berlind Rehearsal Room on Sunday, October 22, 2023 at 1:00pm, and is open to the public, free of charge.
Performed as a staged reading with professional actors, "Our Cancer Stories" is an original devised theatre piece that draws its inspiration from the real-life experiences, challenges, triumphs, and emotions of individuals and families affected by cancer and loss within the local community.
"We are thrilled to continue our partnership with McCarter Theatre Center for the third year of 'Our Cancer Stories.' This program exemplifies the profound impact that the arts can have on individuals dealing with cancer and their loved ones," said Kyle Jachim, Oncology Social Worker and Program Coordinator at Crossroads4Hope. "Through my work, I understand that everyone has a story to share, and we hope this production helps not only elevate those voices, but foster a sense of community, understanding, and healing."
Brooke Boertzel, Director of Education at McCarter Theatre Center, commented, "Theatre has the ability to illuminate the human experience, and 'Our Cancer Stories' does just that. We are excited to host this event in person for the first time and provide a platform for healing through the theatrical process. We believe in the therapeutic and transformative power of the arts, and this collaboration with Crossroads4Hope exemplifies that belief."
The public performance of "Our Cancer Stories" will take place on Sunday, October 22, 2023 at 1:00pm, at McCarter Theatre Center’s Berlind Rehearsal Room. The event is free, though seating is limited. Join them for an unforgettable afternoon that celebrates the strength, resilience, and unity of our community in the face of adversity.
Ticket Information: Admission is free and reservations can be made at crossroads4hope.org or by emailing Kyle Jachim at [email protected].
An independent not-for-profit performing arts center located between New York City and Philadelphia – and on the campus of Princeton University – McCarter is a multi-disciplinary creative and intellectual hub offering theater, music, dance, comedy, spoken word, and educational programs for all ages. Celebrated for developing new work and winner of the 1994 Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre, world premieres include Christopher Durang's Vanya, Sonia, Masha and Spike (Tony, Best Play), Tarell Alvin McCraney's The Brother/Sister Plays, and Emily Mann's Having Our Say. Equally revered for presenting renowned global artists on its stages, some of which include Alvin Ailey, Yo-Yo Ma, Samara Joy, David Sedaris, Hasan Minhaj, Terence Blanchard, Roseanne Cash, the rock band Lake Street Dive, Audra McDonald, and more. McCarter connects with the community year-round and offers on-site classes and in-school residencies. McCarter and Princeton University share a long history of unique partnerships and creative collaborations.
Crossroads4Hope was founded as an independent 501(c)(3) in 2001 by four New Jersey women who believed that people with cancer and their families deserved professionally led, community-based social and emotional support, education, and resources throughout their cancer journeys. Since 2004, more than 18,000 people have accessed Crossroads4Hope, resulting in over 117,000 hours of programming delivered, always offered at no charge. They help all those touched by cancer to move through a health crisis and become active and empowered, taking control of their health, care, and wellbeing. In 2021, Crossroads4Hope adopted MyGo2Support, a telehealth platform offering personalized cancer resources and support, as well as connection to our mental health and allied health professionals for further intervention when needed. Crossroads4Hope’s network of support embraces all people touched by cancer—the diagnosed and their loved ones—providing access to resources and evidence-based programs of support, education, wellbeing, and hope. They are committed to upholding the dignity of all people through cultural humility and respect for gender identification, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, and income difference. Their vision is to be THE safe space to turn first to restore one’s whole being and family.
