Members of Ottawa’s legal community are donating some non-billable hours and channeling their inner thespian in the name of helping homeless youth.
This year’s performance of Arthur Miller’s The Crucible is part of The Lawyer Play, an annual tradition dating back to 1999 that invites judges and lawyers in the Ottawa region to help raise money for charity.
The fundraiser donates proceeds to a selected charity every year. This year’s beneficiary is Operation Come Home, a non-profit organization that assists Ottawa’s homeless youth.
A lot of the people involved are prominent litigators, said Stephanie Lewis, a corporate commercial litigator.
“It’s an excellent tradition in philanthropy in the legal community,” said Lewis.
Since its inception, the Lawyer Play has grossed over $800,000 for the Great Canadian Theatre Company and local charity partners.
Miller’s The Crucible tells the story of the Salem Witch Trials in 1692, where many were sentenced to death over suspicions of witchcraft.
Lewis, who plays the character named Mercy, said the play features “dark humour,” but that you could come to the play with no knowledge of the Salem Witch Trials and be able to follow along.
“The play really speaks for itself,” said Lewis.
Performances are being held tonight until May 14 at the Irving Greenberg Theatre Centre.
Tickets are available for $100 at the door, which includes a post-performance Gala reception and a $50 tax receipt.