StageQ proudly presents its new play Mommies Can’t Marry, by Madison playwright Rick Alton.

Mommies Can’t Marry was conceived by StageQ Artistic Director Thomas McClurg, who will direct the play. As a response to the current debate about gay marriage in Wisconsin (and the nation), McClurg formed the “Mommies Project” in an effort to bring the debate about gay marriage to the stage. McClurg and the “Mommies” team hope to schedule performances in several cities throughout the state. The play will open in Madison and then make its way around Wisconsin to selected cities, returning to Madison for additional performances in April.

Rick Alton attended the first meeting of the “Mommies Project” and offered to write a play, based on McClurg’s ideas. Mommies Can’t Marry is Alton’s first play. His writing style is gripping, informative, and funny. The play features three gay, lesbian, and straight couples who are facing relationship, commitment, and legal issues about marriage. Humor and wit are used to examine the myriad of views regarding who should (or should not) be allowed to marry. (The play is intended for mature audiences.)

Mommies Can’t Marry runs January 15 and 16, 2005. Performances are at the Bartell Theater, 113 East Mifflin Street, Madison, Wisconsin.

Performance dates and times are

• Saturday, January 15, at 2:00pm

• Sunday, January 16, at 5:00pm