Private Pain in Public Pews Gospel Play
Review

Dr. Elaine Brown Spencer is to be congratulated on a great theatrical production based on her book, Private Pain in Public Pews. An eclectic and expertly scripted dialogue using devices of the theatrical trade, she mixes humour and tears, heightening the impact of serious church issues. During the opening sequence with (what I'll call) "The Three Stooges" comedy moment or Tia’s monologue which is equally serious, funny and thought-provoking. There’s also the poignant and revealing moment where the action freezes on stage and two children emerge to reveal what the audience has always known - that children see, perceive and understand much more than they're credited for. The play-ending cliff-hanger adds that unexpected and unpredictable element.

Notable scenes - 1) Tia’s monologue, 2) The Fight scene (with Sister Terry and Tia), 3) The children’s emergence on stage and 4) Samantha and The church mother (this scene I found to be the most touching and emotionally moving).

The play presents to the church the prophetic message that the church must ‘get the dung out of the dung gate’. When Nehemiah was repairing the wall in Jerusalem, there were many gates which had crumbled or were in need of repair. The dung gate being that gate used as the only exit from which the filth of the city was removed and cast out of city walls. The Lord warns the church today through this play, that if we continue to conceal these unhealthy hurts, habits, deceptions, disappointments, lies and the like, we only serve to harm ourselves and those we’re supposed to help. Only when we acknowledge our failures and inadequacies will we be free and clear to live a transformed, transparent and godly life – one that will bless, encourage and heal our world.

Canadian Gospel Artist, Chris Lowe was wonderful and promising in his role as Minister Terry exhibiting periodic flashes of brilliance. It appears his tour with Andrew Craig’s Christmas project may have prepped him somewhat for his role on stage. However, a more substantive performance would have had his melodic and aesthetically pleasing voice connect deeper with his character, script and lyrics. Such a performance would truly shine.

Structurally the play was virtually seamless; creatively it was humorous and entertaining. Socially and spiritually, much discussion was generated by the issues highlighted. I absolutely loved it! By all accounts, the audience loved it as well! Private Pain has a lot of potential. If all the actors continue to embrace their characters, not only as actors but as church followers, this play would be truly off the chain. Don`t hesitate to see Private Pain in Public Pews, you will not be disappointed!

Reviewed by: Kathy Grant Host, Gospel Groove
CHRI 99.1 FM
President, KGM Enterprises www.kathygrant.org
To comment email: Kathy@kathygrant.org