The fall theater season at Oak Park and River Forest High School started off with music and mayhem (see above and left). Coming up this fall are two additional plays that take on weighty issues about justice and crime. 

In the Little Theater: “12 Angry Jurors” 

Written by Reginald Rose, adapted by Sherman L. Sergel

Directed by James Bell

“12 Angry Jurors” explores the responsibility 12 ordinary people must face in deciding the fate of a teenager who has been accused of murder. As they work through the life and death decision, the jurors bring their biases, prejudices and personal histories into the jury room. Although this show was originally written for men, this production may have a cast with a mix of gender roles. This play is one continuous scene and will be performed in the round.

Performances: Nov. 15, 16, 22 and 23 at 7 p.m.

In Studio 200: “Bury the Rest”

Written by Skye Robinson Hillis

Directed by William Cote

After their 17-year-old daughter Lucy dies in a mass high school shooting, exes Colin and Margot find themselves at a moral stalemate. Colin is a senator and a committed supporter of the NRA. His position makes it difficult for the rest of his family and Margot to deal with their grief. Through the complicated healing process, people’s life goals are evaluated and relationships are rekindled. During this process Lucy is forced to confront the truths of her life while she faces her death. 

Performances: Nov. 13 and 15 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 14 at 4 p.m.