The Christians, a contemporary drama about faith in America, opens Friday, Oct. 23 and runs through Nov. 15, staged in the Koger-Gamache Studio Theatre, an intimate 75-seat black box space at The Limelight Theatre. Directed by Richard Curran-Kelley, this thought-provoking play asks, “What does it take to be a Christian in today’s world?” National Catholic Report calls it ….”powerful, riveting … handles a complex and intellectual debate in a relatable way and that, more importantly, shows the human and real consequences of choices based in spirituality.”
THE STORY
Twenty years ago, Pastor Paul’s church was nothing more than a modest storefront. Now he presides over a congregation of thousands, with classrooms for Sunday School, a coffee shop in the lobby, and a baptismal font as big as a swimming pool. Today should be a day of celebration. But Paul is about to preach a sermon that will shake the foundations of his church’s belief. A big-little play about faith in America—and the trouble with changing your mind.
Written by Lucas Hnath, the play is currently on stage at Playwrights Horizons in New York City. It was first introduce at the Humana Festival of New American Plays (where Charles Isherwood of The New York Times called it “the finest of the bunch”). It has also been staged at theaters in Texas and Ohio.
The local cast includes Everette Street as Pastor Paul; Daniel Carter as Associate Pastor Joshua; Jim Fellows as Elder Jay; Tracey Gallagher as Elizabeth; and Jennifer Latka as Jenny.
Opening night on Oct. 23 includes pre-show champagne and a meet-the-cast party following the performances. Show times are 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, with a 2 p.m. Sunday matinee. Two Terrific Tuesdays feature two tickets fro $30 on Oct. 27 and Nov. 3. Tickets to all other shows are $26 for adults; $24 for seniors; $20 for students and military; $10 student rush tickets (30 minutes prior to each performance); and one free child ticket (12 and younger) with full price paid adult ticket.
For reservations, go to limelight-theatre.org or call the box office at 904-825-1164.