Controversial Musical Performed At Hartford Public High School

The musical "Zanna, Don't!" was performed at Hartford Public High School for the Law And Government and the Nursing academies on Oct. 14th. The play, sponsored by The Knox Foundation and the Samuel Roskin Trust at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving (with additional funds supplied by the non profit True Colors and Leadership Greater Hartford's Quest), deals about issues pertaining to homosexuality. The thought behind showing this musical is so that the students are tolerant of gays and lesbians. It is set in an alternate world where homosexuality is normal and heterosexuality is shunned. The most controversial moment of the play came when two male actors shared a kiss. Some students who where watching the show at that moment made noise to being offended, and some students decided to walk out of the auditorium (even though a few of them decided to resume watching the performance). David Chambers, principal of the nursing academy, said "Our kids never deal with this, they keep it inside. That's why they walked out." However, many students cheered on the gay characters. Student Dineily Vargas commented "I think it opened a lot of people's eyes." "Zanna, Don't!" will be shown twice more on Oct. 21st. There will be another performance just for students during the school day, then at 7:30 P.M. a free public showing will be held.

Source: Courant.com