The newly-formed Wallis Youth Theater Company will present its inaugural theater production “Word of Mouth,” on Jan. 28 and 29 in the Lovelace Studio Theater at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills.

The show is a physical theater piece that asks audiences to examine the role words play in creating a culture of fear and division, or a culture of empathy and unity.

Directed by Madeleine Dahm, “Word of Mouth” is an experimental work based on youth theater members’ reactions to recent political and social events across the world, and their desire to question the normalization of verbal violence.

“As we find ourselves in an era of Post-Truth, often overwhelmed by propaganda that is rooted in fear, isolationism and hate, it is vital that we create a space in the arts for the insights, perspectives and courageous experiences of the young,” Dahm said.

Using text, movement, mask and music, it provides an uncompromising and sometimes satirical look at truth, fear and the power of words.

The narrative of “Word of Mouth” is drawn from multiple sources and includes individual testimonials, newspaper articles (The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Independent, London Times), excerpts from United Nations delegate speeches and the human rights speeches of Nobel Peace Prize honoree Aung San Suu Kyi.

Due to sophisticated language and some adult content, the recommended age is 15 or older.

“Our actors have channeled their deep concerns about the current political and social climate to create a powerful new work,” said Mark Slavkin, director of education at The Wallis.  “I am very proud that The Wallis is able to invest in young artists and provide a safe space for their talents to be cultivated and their voices to be honored.”

The Wallis Youth Theater Company states that its mission is to cross boundaries, and, with an ethos of collaboration, create thoughtful and provocative work that is rooted in humanity.

The youth company is comprised of young actors aged 17 to 23. From across Los Angeles, these artists come from diverse backgrounds and experiences but are connected by their passion for theater and the arts. The Company aims to provide a place for young actors to work as an ensemble, learn cutting edge creative practices, develop innovative and socially conscious work and be engaged with the local community.

Tickets cost $20.

The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts is located at 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills. For information, visit thewallis.org.