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PREVENTION PLAYS

2nd Act is the only nonprofit organization in the United States that creates original drama therapeutic productions as a substance use prevention intervention. We utilize real stories, actors with lived experience, drama therapeutic theory, and prevention framework to ensure audiences walk away with a deeper understanding of and compassion for Substance Use Disorder and those affected by it. ​
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PLAYS RUN 25-35 MIN & ARE: 

  • Performed by actors in long-term recovery or with lived experience of Substance Use

  • Based on real stories

  • Designed to meet relevant health education standards based on Department of Education outcomes for each state where 2nd Act performs

  • Followed by a facilitated talkback from our actors

  • Suitable for ages 12 and above

  • Accompanied by a discussion and resource guide

OUTCOMES

  • Identify what Substance Use Disorder (SUD) looks like in an individual and a family. 

  • Identify the nature and origins of SUD.

  • Identify a trusted adult and local resources to talk to about SUD.

  • Normalize conversation about SUD by practicing it post-show. 

  • Create allyship within the student body to help support those struggling with SUD. 

  • Identify pathways to recovery and healthy coping skills.

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I'll Never Do That

THIS PLAY HAS BEEN ON TOUR SINCE 1989

An intimate story of one family's struggles happening behind closed doors. As one of the parents descends deeper into addiction, the rest of the family struggles to cope. This story sheds light on family dynamics, the harrowing path to recovery, and the overwhelming truth that addiction is a “family disease.”

Written by: Improbable Players

Spanish translation of the script is available for audiences.
Translated by Pablo Barrera

Short Scenes

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2nd Act's Short Scenes are unconnected short performances inspired by the lived experience of members of the 2nd Act community and performed by our troupe of actors in recovery. Each scene is 2-5 minutes in length and tackles an important topic related to opioid and other substance use, including social media, mental health, and seeking help. They can be performed in sequence, as a free-standing program, paired with an Act Now workshop or other event, or performed before or after a Prevention Play.

Available scenes include:
 

  • Prescription Drug Slam - Stats about substance use

  • Doin' The Line - Role of prescriptions in Opioid Use Disorder

  • Social Media Spiral - The impact of social media on mental health

  • Casey's Story - A story about addiction and asking for support

  • Seduction of Pills - A story about a parent and the role of prescriptions in developing Substance Use Disorder

  • Actors' Personal Stories - Every Prevention Play features a talk-back where actors share their personal stories, but these stories can be shared in other contexts. 

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