Cate O’Kane and Chris Boscia, activist actors, are collaborating with Peter Serko on Vashon World AIDS Day, taking place the weekend of December 7th and 8th. In our conversation, they share their commitment to activism, the importance of addressing AIDS, and how the arts can serve as a powerful tool for social change.

As part of the weekend’s events, both actors will be a part of The Laramie Project, a staged reading of Moisés Kaufman’s acclaimed work. The performance, directed by Chris Boscia of Take A Stand Theatre, will be held on December 7th at 6:30 PM at Vashon High School.

This impactful play explores the community of Laramie, Wyoming, as it confronts the brutal 1998 murder of Matthew Shepard, a young gay man, and delves into broader themes of prejudice, accountability, and collective healing. Island actors will bring the story to life in an effort to spark meaningful conversations about tolerance, the media’s influence, and society’s role in addressing hate.

Cast:
Dedra Whitt-Dakota
Phillip Gorbachov
Mateo Grey
Catherine MacNeal
Toby Nichols
Cate O’Kane
Brian Palermo
Samantha Sherman
Steven Sterne
Erika Strandberg
Jon Whalen

At 5 pm, preceding the reading, an exhibition unveils letters and cards received by the Shepard family after Matthew’s tragic death. It illustrates the profound impact of his story on individuals and communities and highlights the urgent need for continued advocacy and unity.

Special Guest Appearance:
Dennis Shepard, Matthew Shepard’s father, will address the Vashon community before the performance. He will share insights into the work he and Judy Shepard—recently awarded the 2024 Presidential Medal of Honor—have undertaken in Matthew’s name to foster acceptance and combat hate.

Following the reading, Cate O’Kane will host a moderated community discussion titled Not On Our Island. This dialogue will explore prejudice, justice, media influence, and healing. Community leaders from media, education, health, and faith sectors will offer perspectives and guide a reflective conversation with the audience.

About the Actor-Activists:
Chris Boscia, a stage actor and director, has a rich body of work spanning New York City, Seattle, and Vashon, including collaborations with Vashon Repertory Theatre.
Cate O’Kane, born in Northern England, has dedicated her career to social causes around the world. A seasoned actor andproud member of the Vashon Repertory Company, she calls Vashon home and loves bringing her acting skills to advocatingfor meaningful change.

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To find out more about Vashon Worlds AIDS Day and the Laramie Project, click here: or go to VashonWorldAidsDay.org.

To contribute to the Matthew Shepherd Foundation Foundation that empowers individuals to embrace human dignity and diversity through outreach, advocacy and resource programs—go to https://www.matthewshepard.org/ or use this QR code: