In the aftermath of the 1968 Democratic National Convention, eight anti-Vietnam war activists were tried for criminal conspiracy and incitement to riot. The “Chicago 8” trial was one of the most intense in American history, characterized by the judge’s uncloaked hatred of the defendants; star testimony from some of the era’s cultural icons, including Allen Ginsberg, Norman Mailer, Jesse Jackson, and Judy Collins; and disturbing visuals, like the only Black defendant being shackled and gagged in court. In this popular program, Aytan Adler will lead participants in a dramatic reading of the edited trial transcript. Much like a table reading for a play, participants will be assigned parts (judge, attorney, plaintiff, etc.) with time for discussion. Bring your curiosity and creative spirit.