Theatre Tuscaloosa’s SecondStage to Present Stop Kiss

September 2, 2021 – Theatre Tuscaloosa’s SecondStage begins its 2021-2022 season with the modern drama Stop Kiss, by Diana Son, running October 6-10 at Grace Presbyterian Church (113 Hargrove Road, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405).

When Sara, played by Melissa Grantham, moves to New York City, she finds a cat-sitter, and eventually a friend, in Callie, played by Jessica Briana Kelly. As the two grow closer, they struggle to make sense of their relationship on the path that leads to their first kiss and the tragedy that follows. Presented in partnership with Grace Presbyterian Church and Druid City Pride, this poignant play is as heartwarming as it is moving. Other cast members include Chris Ciulla, Scott Frazier, Shanique Hill, Taril Slater, and Sontonia Stephens.

“Stop Kiss is a beautiful play and one that I think everyone can relate to on some level,” said director Kiera Gillock. “Half the play feels like your typical rom-com, making the audience grin like fools for this mushy, awkward romance that’s blooming before their eyes. But it also turns and shows the darker reality that gay couples still face, simply because of who they are, and how this love that many people might experience in their lives, for some, also comes with its own unique fears and dangers because of the hatred of other people, even here in the United States.”

Theatre Tuscaloosa’s SecondStage program is supported by the Alabama State Council on the Arts, the City of Tuscaloosa, Shelton State Community College, and Signature Sponsor Claire Friday.

Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, October 6-9, and at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 10, in the Fellowship Hall of Grace Presbyterian Church, at 113 Hargrove Road. The runtime is approximately ninety minutes, and patrons are required to wear a mask while inside the building. The play contains strong language and adult themes and is not recommended for anyone under 16 years of age. General admission tickets are $8 each. Tickets and more information are available at theatretusc.com or 205.391.2277.

A vital member of the Alabama Community College System, Shelton State Community College is committed to creating new opportunities for West Alabama.  “With a renewed focus on meeting the needs of its customers, the College offers innovative solutions and an enhanced approach to customized education, training, and community impact,” states President Brad Newman.  “Collectively, we will be excellent in each!”

Be part of the new vision for our shared community.  Visit sheltonstate.edu to learn more or apply.

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Theatre Tuscaloosa is a 501c3 not-for-profit community theatre located on the Martin Campus of Shelton State Community College. Theatre Tuscaloosa has been enriching the greater Tuscaloosa community since 1971 through quality theatrical productions and educational outreach.