Arizona Theatre Matters will present a staged reading of Even Unto Death, a new play by Jeanmarie Simpson, at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4 in the Glendale Main Library, 5959 W. Brown St.

Admission is free. This staged reading integrates voice actors and Artistic Sign Language interpreters, weaving accessibility directly into the experience. After the performance, a post‑show discussion with the creative team will invite audience feedback, helping to shape a recorded version to debut later on ATM’s YouTube channel.

Set in the aftermath of Joan of Arc’s execution, Even Unto Death centers on Isabelle Romée, Joan’s mother, who navigates grief, memory, and social upheaval while personally petitioning to reverse her daughter’s condemnation.

The play offers a fresh, personal perspective on a familiar historical narrative — not just the martyr, but the mother who refused to be silenced.

“Joan didn’t stand alone,” Simpson said. “Her mother stood with her — long after the fire. That’s the story I needed to tell.”

The play's run time is approximately 60–70 minutes, including a short intermission.

Arizona Theatre Matters shapes theatre from the substance of accessibility, ensuring storytelling reaches everyone—regardless of ability, income, or location. By making accessibility an artistic foundation, the group creates theatre that is inclusive, experimental, and for all.