Staged reading of 'The Abuelas' to debut in Barrington

Barrington's White House is pleased to present a world premiere staged reading of a full-length play called "The Abuelas," written by St. Anne's and Barrington High School graduate Stephanie (Weinart) Walker, as directed by Ricardo Gutierrez, at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 17, at Barrington's White House, 145 W. Main St., in Barrington.

Following the staged reading in Barrington, the play will be performed at Chicago's Victory Gardens in February and March 2019.

On the heels of the smash hit "The Madres," written by Stephanie Walker and produced by Teatro Vista at Victory Gardens, comes "The Abuelas." Set 37 years after "The Madres" ends, "The Abuelas" tells the story of an Argentine concert cellist living in Chicago with her American husband and adjusting to life as a new mom when a visit from two strangers upends everything.

This play, about the long and devastating repercussions of Argentina's military dictatorship from 1976-1983, asks how one goes on after discovering their life is a lie? Does the restoration of truth bring freedom or suffering? Is it possible to integrate two identities into one life?

"The Abuelas" explores these questions, as well as the heart's capacity for forgiveness, even in the face of the harshest betrayal.

"The Abuelas" is a winner of the 2018 Ashland New Plays Festival, a finalist for the 2018 National New Play Network Showcase of New Plays and a semifinalist for the 2017 National Playwrights Conference at the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center.

The reading of "The Abuelas" will be followed by a talkback with the playwright, as well as questions from the audience. A cash bar will be available before and after the event; doors open a half-hour before the reading.

Admission is free; donations will be accepted to defer travel expenses of the cast. Registration required at www.barringtonswhitehouse.com.