The Moline High School winter play pays tribute to the life and courage of an 8-year-old boy who suffered with hemophilia and AIDS.
Benjamin Saar was born with congenital hemophilia. He was eight years old when he died of AIDS-related complications in 1987.
Students who are part of the production say it has been an emotional experience that has changed their understanding of HIV and AIDS.
“They really educated us a lot about the AIDS virus and how you can contract it,” said actor Christian Frieden who plays Benjamin in the production. “My outlook on it has definitely changed."
Moline High School will present four performances of the award-winning “The Yellow Boat” at 7 p.m. January 24, 25 and 26 with a 2 p.m. matinee January 26. Tickets are available at the door or in advance at the Moline High School bookstore. Tickets cost $6 for students and $8 for adults.