Wednesday 17 January 2001

Corpus Christi, Jan 17, 2001


by Terrence McNally
Polemic Productions at Athenaeum II until 4 Feb, 2001
Reviewer: Kate Herbert

"Look what they did to him!" say the apostles after Jesus is crucified in Terrence McNally's play, Corpus Christi. It is a poignant simple and respectful ending to a play that has caused controversy amongst religious zealots in Melbourne.

The tiny group of demonstrators outside the Athenaeum on opening night included both the conservative Presbyterians and the Prophets of Islam. What they object to is the portrayal of Jesus as having homosexual inclinations.

What they choose to ignore is the fact that this play is clearly written by a profoundly religious man, McNally, who represents Jesus, his disciples, the New Testament and Christian theology in a sympathetic and devout light.

What he does is leap into the 21st century where all kinds of interpretations are made of Christian Ministry, where gays follow the Christian philosophy, attend churches and marry.

This production with thirteen men on stage, is directed with inspiration by Catherine Hill who makes even the inexperienced actors look and sound great. We are introduced to them all as they are baptised into their roles by John the Baptist (Craig McDonald).

The production is seamless with scenes blending one into the other with songs, clever physicalisation and subtle, evocative lighting. (Nick Merrylees)

The script is a Morality Play in the mediaeval style. However, it is set in small town Texas although Hill wisely chooses not to use Texan accents. It might be even better to transpose the references to Australia.

We see Jesus (Lawrence Price) or Joshua as he is called, born and visited by three hilarious Wise Men. He grows up in a hick town attending Pontius Pilate High School. He goes to the prom and - here is the controversial moment - is seduced by Judas who is gay and an adoring and jealous young man. This is Jesus' downfall.

There are several exceptional performers. Daniel Frederiksen plays Thomas but charms the audience as Jimmy Dean/Satan, Patricia Joshua's awkward prom date and other roles. Bruce Langdon charms the audience as Thaddeus the hairdresser, a wise man and the booming patriarchal voice of God.

Andrew Hall as Matthew , the lawyer, is vocally expressive and s Judas, Trent Baker portrays an unhappy, troubled man.

Price finds a simplicity and child-likeness in Joshua that is essential to the narrative. His murder is moving.

Don't be put off by the protesters. This is a deeply religious albeit modern interpretation of Jesus' life.

By Kate Herbert


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