Stage Epidemic

Twenty years ago, the AIDS epidemic was just beginning to capture the attention of the American public, some five years after the first reported U.S. cases. It was around this time that playwright Larry Kramer premiered The Normal Heart, one of the first theatrical productions to tackle the issue. The play tells the story of AIDS activist Ned Weeks, who overcomes bigotry and indifference in order to bring the AIDS crisis to the attention of both the media and the gay community. This Friday at 8 p.m., the Uptown Players open a new production of the play at El Centro College, 801 Main St. Tickets are $22 to $25. The production continues through August 20. Call 214-219-2718 or visit uptownplayers.org.
Thursdays-Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m. Starts: July 28. Continues through Aug. 20