[Trailer] Carpetbag Theatre Presents “Speed Killed My Cousin” At Hayti

Durham, NC – “Speed Killed My Cousin” is a timely, moving new play about an African American woman soldier who returns from Iraq with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and is haunted by Moral Injury. Produced by The Carpetbag Theatre (C.B.T.), the show will run two shows on Saturday, August 17th at Hayti Heritage Center (804 Old Fayetteville St.)

The play takes place in a Hummer as Debra, the main character, drives down the Long Island Expressway (L.I.E.) in New York.  As she struggles with flashbacks and memories, she tries to talk with her father about his experiences in the Vietnam war and is visited by his cousin — a Vietnam veteran who died mysteriously in a car crash shortly after his return.

She also remembers her mother, and the women she left behind in Iraq, some of whom did not survive. Memories and flashbacks unfold before her, and in her rear-view mirror, as she drives. Ultimately she must decide whether to let go of the wheel or to choose life.

The Carpetbag Theatre, Inc. is a professional, multi-generational ensemble company dedicated to the creation of new works. C.B.T. is conducting a workshop rooted in personal narratives and shared knowledge. The organization will utilize Story Circles and Digital Storytelling techniques to create space for non-therapeutic story sharing between veterans, their families, and those impacted by war and the trauma associated with it. They will explore community impact and use warm-ups and other theater techniques to provide a welcoming and safe space. Held at Hayti, this workshop is open to veterans and their families at 2 pm.

Presented in conjunction with the 4th National Summit on Arts & Health in the Military, and co-organized by Americans for the Arts.

Tickets available at https://bpt.me/4298650 or by calling the box office at (919) 683-1709.

SPEED KILLED MY COUSIN

By Linda Parris-Bailey

Directed by Andrea Assaf

Media Design by Melody Reeves

Original Music by Kelle Jolly, John Puckett, and Bert Tanner

Performed by the Carpetbag Theatre ensemble, featuring:  Linda Parris-Bailey, Andresia “Real” Moseley, Bert Tanner & Carlton “Starr” Releford