A 30-minute film portraying the realities of being tested for HIV infection will premiere during a gala event at 7:30 p.m., Friday, May 5 at the Paramount Theatre in Burlington.
Becca Doane, an Elon University senior and one of 25 Periclean Scholars in the class of 2006, wrote the short story that the screenplay is based on after being tested for HIV.
“What I learned is that being tested is much more of an emotional experience than anyone can imagine,” said Doane, who was surprised to learn that testing involves a simple mouth swab rather than a blood test. “The Periclean Scholars Class of 2006 is trying to break the stigmas that go with getting tested. It’s also important to know whether or not you are HIV-positive.”
“Testing Positive” is being produced by Elon faculty, staff and students. Numerous campus groups are involved in the production, including Project Pericles, Elon Television and several academic schools and departments. In addition, various community agencies are providing expertise and support to the production, including the Town of Elon, the City of Burlington, the N.C. Department of Health and several private businesses. In addition to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS, one of the goals of “Testing Positive” is to build and strengthen relationships between the university and the surrounding community.
The main character in Doane’s screenplay is Jenna Woodruff, a 21-year-old college student who finds herself in a sexual relationship with the wrong man. Influenced by what she has recently learned about HIV/AIDS and fearing the worst, she decides to get tested for HIV. The testing process causes her to reflect on her past relationships and to take stock of her life.
Tickets for the May 6 premiere are $20; student tickets are $10. Net proceeds from the event will be donated to Alamance Cares, a local non-profit organization dedicated to educating, testing and counseling people dealing with HIV/AIDS. A reception will follow the film’s screening.
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