University Theatre kicks off season with ‘Hands Up’ Sept. 30

“Hands Up: 7 Playwrights. 7 Testaments.” opens the 2016-2017 University Theatre season at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30, at the Dennis and Cheryl Woods Theatre in the Speech Arts building (Room 135). The production runs through Saturday, Oct. 8, at 7:30 p.m. daily except for a 2 p.m. matinee Oct. 2 and no performances Monday, Oct. 3. The play, written by seven emerging African-American playwrights, explores the #BlackLivesMatter movement and police violence within the African- American community. “Hands Up: 7 Playwrights. 7 Testaments.” is for mature audiences only, as it contains explicit language, simulated violence and intense scenes. Tickets range from $17 to $10 and can be purchased online, at the Theatre Arts Box Office (noon to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and one hour before performances) or via phone at 559.278.2216. INFO: Anthony Cody at dacody@csufresno.edu, or see the Theatre Arts Department website. Original press release.