The Christians Graces Alley Theatre Stage

Lucas Hnath's The Christians starts performances this evening at Alley Theatre.

The show follows Pastor Paul, who has spent the last 10 years nurturing his congregation. Beginning in a modest storefront, he now preaches to thousands in a space that that boasts a coffee shop in its lobby and a baptismal font the size of a swimming pool. However, Paul has reached an impasse, and the sermon he’s about to present to his flock will shake the very foundations of their beliefs. Staged as a church service and backed by a live choir, the show confronts, unflinchingly, current value systems in America.

Alley’s artistic director Gregory Boyd directs the new play but Hnath. The cast features Jeffrey Bean as Jay, Melissa Pritchett as Jenny, Emily Trask as Elizabeth, Richard Thierot as Pastor Paul, and Shawn Hamilton as Joshua.

"This is a remarkable piece of theatre, and takes issues of religion and faith seriously, and without any prejudice," said Boyd. "We are thrilled to welcome Lucas Hnath’s bold new play to the Alley."

The creative team includes Scott Anthony (musical director), James Youmans (set design), Judith Dolan (costume design), Kevin Rigdon (lighting design), and John Gromada (sound design).

Performances will run through May 15.

For tickets and more information, click here.