This powerful one act play – inspired by true stories of Kansas City people from many different faith traditions – performs to audiences that range from high school and college students to corporate executives and community leaders from all walks of life.

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Among the stories are those of a young Muslim and his surprise encounter with New York City fire fighters after 9/11, an African-American pastor and the enslaved grandmother he will never forget, a Holocaust survivor turned baker and community care-taker, and the Hindu and the cowboy who come face to face over the fate of land in the area.

Presented since 2004 to nearly 30 different audiences, the play and its author,  Donna W. Ziegenhorn, have received several awards, including recognitions from:

• Crescent Peace Society

• Dialog Institute Southwest

• Greater Kansas City Interfaith Council

• Harvard University’s Pluralism Project

• Missouri Association for Social Welfare

 

The idea for the play was sparked by the Mosaic Life Stories Project, undertaken in 2002 by a group of volunteers seeking to foster interfaith encounters and promote the power of stories. The popular show – produced by Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre – draws new audiences every year, and previous viewers return, bringing their friends!

 

“. . . an enduring gift to our community”
Vern Barnet, The Kansas City Star

 

“These are the stories and performances that touch and change people.”
Patrick Gahagan – (Former) Vice president Category Management – Hallmark Cards

 

“Several hundred students of mine have been exposed to “The Hindu and the Cowboy.” It’s been key to expanding their world view and developing cultural competency.”
Dr. Elaine Spencer-Carver – Director of Field Education, School of Social Work,
University of Missouri-Kansas City