Students at Western Carolina University are putting war on trial, on Oct. 7 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Appalachian Women’s Museum in Dillsboro.
The mock trial will kickoff with warm cookies and music. Then the trial will be a courtroom-style showdown that’s described as part Judge Judy, part Saturday Night Live for it’s structure and entertainment.
The event, is hosted by the Dian Coyle Committee in partnership with Warm Cookies of the Revolution, a Denver-based civic health club known for mixing serious issues with playful formats. They will facilitate the courtroom drama with creative performance as volunteer actors portray a mock trial on war itself. Students in Dr. Vincent Russell’ Small Group and Team Communication class will participate as collaborators towards the event’s promotion and costuming, as well as volunteer at the event.
Attendees, automatically a part of the “jury” will hear arguments for and against war, delivered by students and faculty portraying lawyers, expert witnesses, and historical figures including a theatrical appearance by Henry David Thoreau advocating for nonviolence.
The trial is designed to be fast-paced and accessible. Each presentation is limited to three minutes, and the audience will cast a final verdict after hearing both sides.
The event is supported by the Coyle Peace and Justice Fund, established by Dr. Fred Coyle in honor of his late wife, Diane Coyle, a WCU graduate and former art instructor who was deeply committed to world peace.
The fund supports public debate and creative civic programming as a tool to democratic engagement.
“This is about getting people to think critically and creatively about war and peace,” Vincent Russell, Chair of the Dian Coyle Committee said. “It’s discussion-based, imaginative, and hopefully a little revolutionary.”
The evening will also feature live music, poetry readings, and refreshments. Transportation to the event is available for reservation on Engage.
