Powerstories Theatre presents “These Shining Lives” by Melanie Marnich, a dramatic tribute to Feminist Victory and Personal Resilience

TAMPA, FL. (January 24, 2019) – In the upcoming performances of These Shining Lives, Powerstories Theatre pays tribute to the real-life circumstances of the “radium girls.” Based on their true story, the social drama depicts the tragedy of four women working in a watch factory that conceals from them the hazards of working with radium. The production dramatizes workplace hazards in 1920s Illinois and explores the political nuances of female emergence in the workforce within the timeless context of employee rights in the face of corporate greed. These Shining Lives tells the story of a feminist victory when the women take their fight for justice to the Supreme Court.These Shining Lives depicts the enthusiasm and spirit with which these women initially went to work; the friendships, independence, and empowerment they garnered; and the important contributions they made to their families’ betterment. This fable-like story of the American dream then turns to the mysterious illnesses that began to plague the workers, their catastrophic outcomes, and the landmark legal case that—after years of corporate obstruction, lengthy appeals, and terrible suffering—paved the way for the passage of occupational labor laws. These Shining Lives offers an intimate, often funny, and always compelling look at some brave American women who bonded, enriched their families and communities through meaningful work, and united in the face of adversity to make courageous choices for the greater good. Powerstories performances of These Shining Lives includes the six-member cast of Erinn Botz, Cayli Caruso, Nathan Juliano, Summer Kiesel, Stefanie Marotta and Kidany Nieves. Performances are from Thursdays through Saturdays beginning Thursday, February 7, 2019 thru February 24, 2019 at Powerstories Theatre located at 2105 W. Kennedy Blvd. with the Support of the Arts Council of Hillsborough County and the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners. Accessible seating is available.“I love these women who fought so hard for worker’s rights! They courageously told their honest stories and did not quit even when their bodies were failing them. They inspired me! ” said Fran Taylor Powers, director of Powerstories Theatre.
TICKET INFORMATION:Individual Tickets now available $25, Seniors $20 and Students/Military with ID $15Order by phone: 813.253.2000 or online: www.powerstories.com_____________________________________________________________________________
General information about Powerstories 
Powerstories Theatre is a theatre production company with a mission of staging true stories to open minds and hearts and inspire action worldwide. The Theatre was founded in 2000 by Fran Powers after a cross country bike ride across the country. “As I crossed the Wyoming border I saw a clear picture of starting a theatre featuring true stories”. 
Powerstories Theatre stages true stories to open minds and hearts and to inspire action worldwide. Since 2003, Powerstories Theatre has produced 12 original autobiographical shows based on true stories by women and girls, and performed for over 20,000 audience members. Storytelling of authentic experiences connects an audience to social issues on a personal level. In speaking true stories, performers and audiences alike receive a powerful gift – the validation that they are living a unique, valuable life.