'Dodging Bullets' tells gripping true story of family violence

An act of family violence that forever changed multiple lives is the focus of “Dodging Bullets,” David Barker’s one-man play that will be presented Oct. 7-9 at Arizona State University’s West campus.

On July 6, 2004, Barker’s life was changed forever in a period of ninety seconds when in an upscale Boston suburb, his brother-in-law, a successful brain surgeon, tried to kill Barker’s sister and Barker himself as his 16 year-old niece watched. “Dodging Bullets,” authored by Barker, is a story of raw violence giving way to redemption. It unmasks the face of cruelty with surprising humor. The work is a compelling journey through both horrific and tender events and is performed with visceral truth by Barker as he brings to life ten different people in this unique solo show.

“Dodging Bullets” received the Best One-Man Show Award from Phoenix New Times in 2009 and is currently being performed in venues all over the country.

Barker is an award-winning actor, director and fight choreographer who received his Master of Fine Arts degree from Rutgers University in 1980. His credits include national and international tours, Broadway, Off-Broadway, regional theatre, international festivals and television. He regularly conducts master classes, workshops and residencies at universities, conservatories and public schools throughout the country and in London, Athens and Shanghai.

Barker also is a theatre professor at ASU’s School of Theatre and Film, where he teaches movement and acting and serves as coordinator of the MFA Performance Program.

Performances of “Dodging Bullets” are set for 8:00 p.m. on Oct. 7, 8, and 9 in Second Stage West, lower level of the University Center Building on ASU’s West campus, 4701 W. Thunderbird Road in Phoenix. Tickets are $10 general admission or $7 for students/seniors/faculty/staff. For reservations, call 602-543-ARTS (2787).