The ARTx3 Campus will present a modern telling of “Prometheus Bound” on March 13-15 in the Adam B. Robinson Jr. Black Box Theater at ART WORKS on Main, 627 S. Main St.
The production is sponsored by Relyance Bank.
“This innovative production reimagines the story of Prometheus — imprisoned for giving humanity the spark of life — as a reflection of the social injustices faced by Black men in America,” according to a news release. “With themes of courage, resilience, and inequitable justice, this performance aims to create a poignant tribute to the ongoing struggles and triumphs of the communities of Black, Indigenous, and people of color.”
This production is presented in the readers theater format, with dramatic readings of the script with a stripped-down set, no props, and simple costumes.
“Readers theater is all about bringing stories to life using just voices and scripts — no need for elaborate costumes, props, or memorization,” said Bethany Gere, theater and public programs coordinator. “It’s a fun and engaging way to perform, focusing on expressive reading and storytelling. Perfect for all ages, it encourages creativity, boosts confidence and makes literature come alive in a whole new way.”
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
J. Tyler of White Hall directs, with Portia S. Jones of Pine Bluff as assistant director.
The Ancient Greek drama was written in the fifth century B.C. by Aeschylus. This version is translated by Bryan Doerries.
The cast members are K.C. Rowland (Prometheus) of Pine Bluff; Briar Thompson (Kratos) of Star City; Grace Swygert (Io) of Pine Bluff; Emily Jackson (Oceanus) of Redfield; Brayden Royal (Hermes) of Pine Bluff; Anthony Royal (Hephaestus) of Pine Bluff; and M. Debra Hester and Raymond Wallace, both of Pine Bluff, in the chorus.
The show is appropriate for ages 13 and older, according to the release.
Shows are 7 p.m. March 13-15. Tickets are $13 for ARTx3 members, $18 for nonmembers and $10 for students when purchased in person with student identification. The promo code “BOUND” may be used online to purchase discount tickets for $7 plus a $1.50 fee each. Tickets may be purchased at artx3.org/all-events/prometheus-bound or by calling (870) 536-3375 or in person before the show.
ARTx3 will offer two school performances March 12, in which students may watch the production and take part in a question-and-answer session with the cast and crew. Tickets to these performances are available first come, first serve, and are $7 per student.
For more information, contact Kayla Earnest, theater and media assistant, at kearnest@artx3.org or Bethany Gere, theater and public programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
RECEPTION FOR KEVIN COLE’S EXHIBITION
The March 14 performance of “Prometheus Bound” coincides with an opening reception and artist talk for “Pushing Forward: Politics, Social Conflict, and the Racial Divide in the Art of Kevin Cole” at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, 701 S. Main St. The reception is from 5-7 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Visitors are encouraged to attend both events.
More information about the Cole exhibition is available at artx3.org/exhibitions/kevin-cole-pushing-forward.

