Play, Program on Violence & Crime Affecting Families

The story of a young man and his last, tormenting hour before his execution for murder is the subject of a play Friday that community activists hope will catch the attention of some of the young Norwalk men shooting each other up in the past several months.

Or if not the youths themselves, at least their families and friends.

Mayor Richard A. Moccia's office and Norwalk Youth Services is presenting the program, which was originated by a New Jersey pastor, Princeton H Holt.

In a news release from the mayor's office, the play is described this way:

"One Hour 2 Live is the gripping story of a young man, Kashawn Davis, and his tormenting moments while awaiting execution for murder. As a former gang member, Kashawn finds solace in blaming society for his problems, which ultimately leads to his own downfall. While in prison, Kashawn encounters the spirits of the victims he has killed. This dynamic, powerful and jaw-dropping play will leave the audience enraptured, as they enter the psychological realm of a killer."

The play is presented with a multi-media presentation, also developed by Holt, called "Why Kids Kill."

"People read about murder, but they don't see the effects of the murder on the household of the murderer and of the victim's family or the community," Chiquita Stephenson of NEON said. The play helps people think about those consequences and could be a way of broadening the perspective's of children and even adults who may tolerate the idea of people shooting at each other in the community, she said.

Moccia said that although the recent shootings have been mostly among young men from South Norwalk, the entire Norwalk community should see the play, especially since instances of youths being out late at night, sometimes getting into trouble, has been a problem throughout the city.

Tickets are $10 in advance or at the door. Children under seven years old will not be admitted. The performance takes place at 6 p.m. Friday, June 10, in Norwalk Concert Hall in City Hall.