Lawrence.com

This August, Lawrence's E.M.U. Theatre will celebrate its 10th anniversary of broke-ass independent productions that somehow manage a consistent quotient of awesomeness. Such undertakings rely on the tenacious dedication of the E.M.U. crew, the support of the community and places like Ecumenical Christian Ministries, which has hosted countless community events throughout the years. Now that the Oread Hotel development has gobbled up the property adjacent to ECM (a not-for-profit ministry and activist center), E.M.U. is showing its solidarity for the continued viability of ECM by hosting a benefit production of David Ives' "Mere Mortals." Producer Nathan Cadman says: "We want to show that ECM is a viable space for the community. They have a lot of improvements they have to make, and we're hoping to help them." E.M.U. cast its most experienced actors for the show, which employs slapstick sight-gags and witty dialog to tell six different stories of mortality. "It's been a trial for us, doing a professional theater piece," Cadman says. "We're putting our best face forward on this one. If you don't like one piece, just wait 10 minutes." "Mere Mortals" contains adult language and content is recommended for mature audiences.The show will begin at 8:00 pm with a reception and hors d'oeuvres to follow. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for students and senior citizens. Tickets can be purchased at the door, the ECM or the Lawrence Arts Center (in person or call 843-2787).