Caught in the Game Performed for Students

Students at two Nova Scotia high schools will have the opportunity to learn about the risks and signs of problem gambling through an innovative, interactive play.

Caught in the Game is being performed today, Feb. 3, at Windsor's Avon View High School and at Canning's Northeast Kings Education Centre on Friday, Feb. 4. This is the first time the play will be presented outside of Ontario.

Caught in the Game is based on an award-winning short story by an Ontario high school student. It was adapted into a play by the Responsible Gambling Council, a non-profit organization focused on the prevention of gambling problems.

"The response to Caught in the Game in Ontario has been extremely positive and we expect the play will have that same favourable impact on educating Nova Scotia students about recognizing the risks associated with gambling," said Marie Mullally, president and CEO of the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation. "Research shows that education and awareness play a key role in problem gambling prevention, so it's important to inform people at an early age."

Caught in the Game centres around the non-monetary costs faced by a first year university student as he becomes more and more focused on his next bet.

"The play engages this audience with language and graphics created by youth," said Laurie Bell, director of prevention programs for the Responsible Gambling Council. "The program is designed to get students thinking about the consequences that can occur if gambling gets out of control."

"We strive to give students the tools they need to make good decisions in their lives," said Larry Fernette, acting principal of Avon View High School. "This play provides important information to them as they approach a time when they will be faced with a host of new choices."

"Students respond well to information that is provided to them by their peers," said Everett MacPherson, principal of Northeast Kings Education Centre. "We are confident that Caught in the Game, which has been written by and for people of this age group, will capture their attention and get the key messages across."

Caught in the Game is produced by Theatre To Go, a not-for-profit organization that presents social issues affecting communities through live theatre and video productions.

The play is being sponsored by the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation as part of its social responsibility mandate.