Play looks at heroin crisis

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

“(In)Dependent,” a play about the heroin crisis co-written by Howland native Emelia Sherin, will be performed this weekend in the Moyer Room of the Youngstown Playhouse. Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. tonight, Friday and Saturday. Admission is $15 (cash only); for reservations, call 330-788-8739.

Sherin and Zach Manthey of Stow, both Kent State University students, co-wrote the play. Sarah Jane Demetruk of Boardman is directing the Playhouse production, which includes a local cast.

“(In)Dependent” follows the life of Ryan, a recovering addict, who attends Narcotics Anonymous meetings with Emily, a recovering addict. Heroin is also portrayed as a character.

The play, which premiered last year in Akron, is based on interviews of addicts by the playwrights.