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Play depicts Jesus, apostles as gay
“Hair” with nude hippies is one thing. Jesus and the disciples as homosexuals is another.
That’s the next attraction at the Dayton Playhouse, where the Terrence McNally play “Corpus Christi” opens Friday, Nov. 13.
The drama depicts Jesus (named Joshua) and the apostles as gay men in 1950s Corpus Christi, Texas, McNally’s hometown. Translated from Latin, the words Corpus Christi mean the body of Christ.
The play has stirred controversy since its 1998 premiere in New York. McNally, who is openly gay, received death threats. The 2000 premiere in England attracted a death fatwa for the playwright.
Dayton Playhouse officials said they anticipate no protests.
“We are fortunate to reside in such an artistic and accepting community,” executive director Wade Hamilton said. “Patrons often praise our smaller and more thought-provoking plays. This is exactly that. Although it puts a highly controversial spin on an old and familiar story, the message is still clear. It’s a story of love, acceptance and forgiveness.”
Dayton Playhouse board chairman Brian Sharp said patrons are being encouraged “to come with an open mind and prepare to leave challenged and changed.”
“Corpus Christi” mixes the mid-20th century (television) with the historic (Roman occupation). One plot twist has Judas betraying Jesus because of jealousy. It has been praised for exploring gay themes in Christianity and condemned as blasphemy or sacrilege.
Dayton actor Michael Boyd, who is directing, provided this synopsis. “It traces the birth, early life, ministry and death of a prophet who is born and raised in Corpus Christi, Texas. He brings a message of love and acceptance — that all people are equal under God. His teachings fall on deaf ears and lead to his persecution and murder.”
Sean Frost will play Joshua. Apostles will be portrayed by: Chuck Larkowski, James Roselli, Max Monnig, Ian Manuel, Franklin Johnson, Matt Turner, Matthew Smith, Greg Nichols, Robb Willoughby, Daniel Bayes, Mike Stockstill and Mark Diffenderfer.
“Corpus Christi” is intended for mature audiences, Boyd said. It includes strong language and “unvarnished situations.”
“Corpus Christi” will be presented at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 13-22, at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave. Tickets are $10-$15 at (937) 424-8477 or www.daytonplayhouse.org.
