SAN MARCOS, Calif. (August 18, 2026) — The TERI Players are back in the spotlight with the premiere of their original whodunit short film, Murder Under Oath. The screening takes place on September 10 at 7:00 p.m. at The Bornemann Theatre on the TERI Campus of Life. All ticket purchases help to support TERI Campus of Life, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1980.
Known for their popular live theater productions, the TERI Players – a dynamic ensemble of adults with special needs enrolled in TERI’s programs – have delighted audiences with professional-quality, inclusive performances since 2009. Murder Under Oath marks the group’s fifth venture into filmmaking, providing participants in the TERI Studios program with the opportunity to demonstrate not only their acting abilities, but also their talents from script to screen through a suspenseful courtroom mystery packed with twists, intrigue, and unexpected surprises.
In Murder Under Oath, a famous movie star is found dead, and the evidence appears undeniable, and the case appears to be solved. But when the prime suspect dies before the jury can deliver a verdict, a shocking realization emerges: the real killer is still in the courtroom, and anyone could be responsible.
“This project gave our performers a new opportunity to explore storytelling through the medium of film,” said Kyle Ramirez, Director of Performing Arts at TERI. “We used Super 8 film in addition to video cameras to capture the performances on location. Murder Under Oath demonstrates what is possible when individuals with disabilities are empowered to express themselves through the arts.”
TERI film professional J.D. Martin wrote the film, and TERI’s Emily Friesen and Martin directed it, with original music and sound design by Ramirez. TERI Studios staff worked with program participants throughout production, providing hands-on experience in all aspects of filmmaking.
The premiere event will begin with a welcome from the filmmakers, followed by the screening and then a Q&A featuring cast and production team members. Guests will have the opportunity to hear behind-the-scenes stories and learn about the creative journey.
Prior to the screening, TERI Common Grounds Café, also located on TERI Campus of Life, will be open for dinner beginning at 4:00 p.m. At 6:00 p.m., a themed pre-show reception with live jazz, film props on display, and a photo booth are available to ticket holders alongside concessions and drinks for purchase.
For more information or to buy tickets, visit: go.thebornemann.com/MurderUnderOath.
About TERI Campus of Life
Founded in 1980, TERI (Training, Education & Resource Institute) is a nonprofit raising the quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families across the lifespan. Headquartered in Oceanside, TERI provides 20-plus programs in specialized education, residential living, the arts, vocational training, and family support services. TERI also operates six social enterprises, including a café, theater, venue rentals and more on their one-of-a-kind, 20-acre Campus of Life in San Marcos where the public is welcome. TERI has been cited as a model program in California and is internationally recognized as a center for social change and lifelong care for those with special needs. Learn more at www.tericampusoflife.org.
About the TERI Players
The TERI Players are an ensemble of adults with special needs enrolled in TERI Studios, a new creative arts program where aspiring actors, singers, dancers, and filmmakers build their skills alongside TERI professionals. Through hands-on training, portfolio building, and performance opportunities, participants develop the confidence and experience needed to pursue professional artistic endeavors.
About The Bornemann Theatre
Established in 2024, The Bornemann Theatre is San Marcos’ premier 200-seat indoor venue offering live entertainment – from concerts and comedy to theater arts, film, and more. Located on the beautiful TERI Campus of Life, it’s a hub for creativity, connection, and inclusion in San Marcos, Calif. All proceeds from tickets and concessions help to support TERI’s high-quality programs and services for the special needs community. Learn more at www.thebornemann.com.
