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Indiana School Cancels 'Between the Lines' as Picoult Cites Parent Complaint

District leaders cite inappropriate content as the reason for pulling the show.

Overview

  • Mississinewa High School in Gas City canceled the student production two weeks before opening after months of rehearsals.
  • Superintendent Jeremy Fewell said he halted the show over sexual innuendos and alcohol references and emphasized the decision was his alone.
  • Author Jodi Picoult says a single parent's objection to a non-binary character prompted the move and notes the school-licensed version removes references to that character’s gender orientation.
  • Fewell has not confirmed whether a parent complaint triggered the decision, responding publicly only with concerns about content.
  • Picoult, her collaborators, and the Educational Theatre Association are working to secure an alternate venue, as the district prepares a stricter review process for future shows.