The City of Savannah’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (ONSE) will host the premiere of “CHECKMATE,” a stage play written and directed by Winsphere Jones. The production is presented by the Youth Artists of Savannah United (YASU), a new youth theater program launched under ONSE.
YASU is part of the city’s 100 Days of Summer initiative, offering a seven-week program aimed at helping local youth find their voices through theater. The program brings together participants from various schools and neighborhoods to create a unified theater group. Organizers say YASU gives young people an opportunity to build confidence, discuss challenging topics, and encourage dialogue that may lead to positive changes in the community.
“CHECKMATE” serves as the capstone project for YASU’s first year. The play will debut at the Otis S. Johnson, Ph.D Cultural Arts Center on Saturday, August 16, with doors opening at 2:30 p.m. and the performance starting at 3 p.m.
The story centers on a teen house party where Aaron Dame is found dead. Detectives John Getz and Raymond Morton investigate eight teens connected to the case while uncovering clues linked to an old investigation.
“This play isn’t just a whodunit, it’s a conversation starter,” playwright and director Winsphere Jones said. “The cast is made up of young people who are telling stories that reflect their realities. This is theater with purpose.”
After the show, audience members can join a discussion about how YASU has influenced its participants and contributed to youth engagement in Savannah. The event is free but requires registration due to limited seating; tickets are available at checkmatetheplay.eventbrite.com.
