Creative Crossroads reading nationwide plays focused on ending gun violence

RIO RANCHO — Rio Rancho Creative Crossroads and Open Arts Studio recently announced their participation in the 2025 Nationwide Reading of “ENOUGH! Plays to End Gun Violence” at 6 p.m. Oct. 6 at the Rio Rancho Event Center.

“In Rio Rancho, this year’s reading will feature local directors and youth performers as well as a presentation and discussion led by New Mexicans to Prevent Gun Violence after the performance,” a press release states.

It adds that more than 48 communities across the United States will perform “ENOUGH!” this year’s winning series of short plays by teen writers.

Six short plays were selected by a panel, including New York Times-bestselling author Jason Reynolds, Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, and nationally recognized dramatists, the release adds.

“These plays cut straight to the heart of what it means to grow up in America today,” Michael Cotey, creator of “ENOUGH!” and Joaquin Oliver, artistic producer, said. “They remind us that the voices most impacted by gun violence — young people — are also among the most powerful in driving change.”

Rio Rancho Creative Crossroads’ and Open Arts Studio’s reading will be part of a coordinated series of events happening nationwide on Oct. 6, including a cornerstone gathering at a to-be-announced location.

“As both an artist and the mom of two teens, this project is deeply personal for me,” said Jen Doolittle, artistic director of Open Arts Studio. “Our kids face the reality of gun violence every day — through lockdown drills, threats at schools, and even local incidents here in Rio Rancho and Albuquerque.”

The release states that students from five local high schools, CNM and University of New Mexico are participating, with directors representing CNM, UNM and the local film and theater community, including one high school student director.

In addition to the staged reading, New Mexicans to Prevent Gun Violence will give a presentation and lead an open discussion. The program features six stories exploring the many angles of gun violence in America — from classrooms to neighborhoods to families. The content of the discussions may be graphic or sensitive.

Tickets are free and seats can be reserved at rr-cc.org. Seating is limited, so reservations are recommended. More information can also be found at enoughplays.com/reading. Donations for New Mexicans to Prevent Gun Violence will be accepted.