The Christians
Reviewed by Julia Stier
Actors Co-op
Through June 16
When the head pastor of a successful megachurch shares his revelations about the non-existence of hell, he creates a chasm in the church that threatens to ruin his job, his marriage, and ultimately his faith. Directed by Thomas James O’Leary, Actors Co-op brings Lucas Hnath’s thought-provoking play about faith to life at the Crossley Theatre.
It is a big day for the church congregation. They have just paid off all their debts — but now, their spiritual leader, Pastor Paul (Townsend Coleman), has decided to share a personal realization, one that shakes the church to its very core. Prompted by a disturbing story, he declares that this church and its members will no longer believe in hell. He is challenged by his associate pastor, Joshua (Thomas Chavira), and this causes a split in the congregation. Many congregants depart. However, the division does not stop there. Soon, those who stayed start asking questions that Pastor Paul can’t answer, and even his own wife, Elizabeth (Kay Bess), doesn’t back him in this new belief.
Townsend Coleman is magnetic as the intelligent and charismatic Pastor Paul. With his calm demeanor and earnest face, it is easy to see how he led so many for so long. Kay Bess finds a wonderful balance as Elizabeth, a woman torn between a love for her husband and a dedication to her faith. Her decision to leave highlights just how shattering Paul’s declaration has been. Thomas Chavira as Associate Pastor Joshua presents an impassioned and well-informed argument for the other side and brings a young fiery passion to his beliefs. As Jenny, a member of the congregation, Nicole Gabrielle Scipione breaks hearts when she shares what the church has done for her, what it means to her, and why this new revelation is a bit hard to swallow. Rounding out the ensemble is Phil Crowley as the soft-spoken Elder Jay.
The talented live choir in the back is a nice touch (music arranged by Noriko Olling), and serves as a wonderful transition between scenes.
One reason the play succeeds is that it doesn’t try to paint belief as either good or bad. Without coming off as preachy, it gives both sides space to state their case, and ends up presenting an eloquent and engaging debate. The play does not try to crown either side as right, and in remaining impartial it avoids coming off as propaganda.
Actors Co-op Crossley Theatre, 1760 N. Gower St., Hollywood; Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 2:30 p.m.; Sat., May 18 & 25, 2:30 p.m.; through Jun. 16. https://www.actorsco-op.org. Running time: one hour and 36 minutes with no intermission.
