Springfield Community Theater & 52 Sumner Partner with Alianza DV Services
Springfield, Mass. – In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Springfield Community Theater will present To The Moon, a compelling docudrama based on hundreds of survivor’s stories. The special performance will benefit Alianza DV Services, a leading provider of domestic violence support services in Western Massachusetts.
EVENT DETAILS:
This play emerged from extensive research, including 200+ anonymous surveys and 20 in-person survivor interviews, creating an authentic, respectful portrayal honoring their voices while offering hope and healing.
"Statistics are not the most powerful way to change someone's mind. Stories are," explains the play's foundational philosophy. The production features characters who embody the diverse experiences shared through interviews and surveys, presenting a direct yet non-exploitative exploration of domestic violence that emphasizes resilience and recovery. Each of the roles will be captured by community leaders taking to the stage to support this important topic. They are, in order of appearance:
To The Moon has received critical acclaim since its creation, with the New York Theater Blog noting: "To The Moon is the kind of issue play created to raise awareness, and to let people realize they are not alone, that they can take action, if action is needed to get out of their situation."
Under the direction of Vana Nespor, Springfield Community Theater of MA brings its commitment to community engagement and social consciousness to this production. The theater company's involvement demonstrates the power of local arts organizations to address important social issues while supporting vital community services.
"Theater has always been a vehicle for social change and community healing," said Nespor. "Bringing To The Moon to our community during Domestic Violence Awareness Month allows us to use our platform to amplify survivor voices and support Alianza's life-saving work."
A Critical Need in Western Massachusetts
Alianza DV Services has served the Western Massachusetts community for over 40 years, providing comprehensive support to more than 3,000 survivors each year, including emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and prevention education. The organization's mission focuses on empowering survivors to rebuild their lives safely while working to prevent future violence through community education and advocacy.
"October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, making this the perfect time to unite our community around this critical issue," said Carmen Nieves, Executive Director at Alianza DV Services. "The partnership with Springfield Community Theater and 52 Sumner allows us to reach new audiences and demonstrate how arts and advocacy can work together to create meaningful change."
This one night only performance of To The Moon will include the theatrical performance, light refreshments, and opportunities to learn more about Alianza DV Services' programs and volunteer opportunities. Any proceeds will directly support Alianza's services for domestic violence survivors throughout Western Massachusetts. Tickets are available online now at 52sumner.com.
For more information about Alianza DV Services visit their website, Facebook or Instagram; for more information on 52 Sumner visit their website, Facebook or Instagram; and for more information about Springfield Community Theater of MA visit their website,
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NOTE TO MEDIA: This event addresses sensitive subject matter. Survivor privacy and safety are paramount in all coverage.
For background information and context for reporting on domestic violence issues please contact:
Alianza DV Services,
Pamela Barnes, Deputy Director
(413) 537-6386
pbarnes@alianzadv.org
For all other inquires, please contact:
Meghan Rothschild
(413) 218-4994
meghan@chikmedia.us
ABOUT THE ORGANIZATIONS
Alianza DV Services: Serving domestic violence survivors in Western Massachusetts for over four decades, providing emergency shelter, transitional housing, counseling services, legal advocacy, children's programming, and community education. The organization serves clients from diverse backgrounds with culturally responsive services and maintains a 24-hour hotline for crisis support.
Alianza DV Services is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
Springfield Community Theater of MA: The mission is to build a stronger, more caring, and creative community through high-quality, low-cost live theater experiences accessible to everyone. We do this by showcasing local talent and celebrating local stories. And, by choosing shows that touch the heart and mind, that inspire us to laugh, cry, cheer, and make life better for those around us.
Springfield Performing Arts Ventures Inc. (SPAV) and 52 Sumner: SPAV is a nonprofit organization that uses 52 Sumner as its performance and event venue. This new venue found its home in a portion of Faith United Church, a 125-year-old landmark that had recently come on the market amid declining church membership in Springfield, MA.
SUPPORT AVAILABLE: If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Contact Alianza DV Services' 24-hour hotline at 413-536-1628 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.
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Meghan Rothschild President & Founder Chikmedia
Honoring Domestic Violence Awareness Month with a powerful, one-night only presentation