March 03, 2025

'The Sacrifice Zone' presentation explores life in a post-industrial urban landscape

BY SOUTHGREY.CA STAFF — A 'sacrifice zone' refers to a geographical area, often a community, that is disproportionately exposed to high levels of pollution and environmental hazards due to the proximity of polluting industries or military bases, usually impacting low-income residents and people of colour, essentially 'sacrificing' their health and well-being for the economic benefit of others. These areas are considered 'sacrificed' because they are allowed to endure significant environmental damage while others are protected. Sacrifice Zones exist because wealthier people don't want such trauma to touch them in their own lives — a practice called NIMBYism (NOT IN MY BACKYARD!).

At 7 pm, on Friday, March 21, The Sacrifice Zone — One man’s experience living in a post-industrial urban landscape, written and performed by Gary Santucci, will grace the Auditorium stage at The Harmony Centre in Owen Sound. His presentation explores what it's like to live and work in a Sacrifice Zone and calls for action to address the social determinants that plague these neighbourhoods.

According to Santucci, "The Sacrifice Zone is where our fellow humans, the marginalized, the wounded and the traumatized exist and live out the rest of their lives with no other options. It is a place of extreme poverty, drug addiction, alcohol abuse, mental illness, reduced life expectancy, no health care other than emergency medical care."

"(But) everyone deserves to live in comfortable surroundings, to have opportunities for education and employment, to be well-nourished and cared for, and to be loved," says Santucci. "Without these foundations of human life, nothing will change the direction we are heading towards."

These themes are explored in Santucci's theatrical presentation in two parts. Part One: Odysseus at the Gates of Shattertown, Part Two: A Citizen’s Arrest.

In Greek and Roman mythology, Odysseus is a legendary Greek king of Ithaca and the hero of Homer's epic poem, The Odyssey. In it, Homer tracks Odysseus’ tortuous 20-year return to Ithaca. But Santucci reveals a destination that remained unknown to us in Homer’s manuscript — Odysseus at the Gates of Shattertown - The Sacrifice Zone. Homer, himself, will present the reading. In the second Act, a story of the intersection of two lives unfolds. The events that initially brought them into conflict are told and ultimately, their redemption is realized.

Through his presentation, Santucci hopes the audience will not only be entertained, but also inspired. "We need to usher in an age of compassion and empathy to create a better society," he explains.

Gary Santucci is a multi-talented musician, playwright and tapas chef. A relative newcomer to the area, he has quickly become involved in sharing his eclectic passions - music, classical guitar, theatre, cuisine and community building. Gary is always an entertaining speaker, performer, teacher and promoter of all arts — this production is one you won’t want to miss!

There will also be a talk back session at the end of the performance and a post performance reception hosted by Gustoso, featuring Mediterranean tapas style cuisine. ” Embracing Life through the Arts.”

Tickets are $25. Doors open at 7:30 pm. Mature language advisory — the performance contains mature language and subject matter and may not be suitable for children. Tickets and more information are available at TicketScene.ca and The Harmony Centre events calendar.

For further info please contact garysantucci@gmail.com or slkobelak@gmail.com.

 

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