The Wallis, CRE Outreach To Present Original Play Based On L.A. Veterans' Lives

BEVERLY HILLS, CA -- CRE Outreach is presenting "The Hero Within," in partnership with the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, from April 22 – 23, 2017. This production features a cast of seven local veterans, whose true stories are woven together to create an original play.

"The Hero Within" brings veterans' personal stories to life through an artistic journey that gives voice to the difficulty of transitioning from the war zone back into society. After completion of a successful operation, the Joint Task Force of the Air Force, Army, Navy and Marines has gathered veterans to be recognized as heroes.

However, the effects of trauma trigger one veteran in attendance to do the unthinkable. "The Hero Within" follows the trials and tribulations of seven brave men and women along their path from civilian life to joining the military to their return home, as they search for the hero within themselves. The show includes both lighthearted comedy and dramatic moments that will leave audiences on the edge of their seat.

CRE Outreach's Artistic Director, Greg Shane said the veterans have loved rehearsing in such a beautiful and artistically inspiring space.

"I am so thankful to have the support of The Wallis in seeing my vision of changing perceptions and eliminating stereotypes about the reality of the effects of the military," he said.

“We all have stories that need to be shared and heard by others,” said Mark Slavkin, Director of Education at The Wallis. “The Wallis is proud to provide a platform for these veterans and artists to present their powerful stories. These men and women are inspiring in their service and in their courage to confront the ways the military often mistreats our true heroes.”

Single tickets are now available from $12 – 22. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit TheWallis.org/Hero, call 310.746.4000, or stop by in person at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts Ticket Services located at 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90210. Ticket prices subject to change.

-- News release from the Wallis. Photo credit: Lynn Shane.