The ’12 Angry Men’ Experience at The Civic Theater!

Ever wonder how a jury reaches a decision in a murder trial? What if the evidence presented in the courtroom was so overwhelming, only one vote was needed to convict the accused? But what if one juror had a lingering doubt that wouldn't go away?

What if the seed he plants germinates in the mind of some of the other jurors? More than anything, the Grand Rapids Civic Theater's production of 12 Angry Men is about diversity and how it plays an integral part in how such a jury reaches it verdict in a crucial murder trial. The play, which is being presented now thru September 18th at the beautiful Meijer Majestic Theater in downtown Grand Rapids, takes place in a jury room in the early 1960's.

When the first vote is taken 11 jurists vote to convict, but juror number eight has some reservations. 12 Angry Men is a fascinating look at what goes on behind the doors of the jury room. Sometimes it's not just the evidence presented in the courtroom, but the opinions and experiences that each juror carries in the room that rule the day. You would think that there would not be much diversity with a jury comprised of 12 White men, but go see the play at the Civic Theater and you'll be surprised.

Even though the play has been around since the mid 50's and has been made into a movie, I never seen it. I won't spoil the ending for those of you in a similar predicament, but just know The cast of 12 Angry Men did an awesome job. At times I was uncomfortable listening to their debate. But that's because I felt like I was inside the jury room and forgot that I was watching a play instead of a murder trial.

Check out this interview with some of the cast and crew of 12 Angry Men! -