The Gospels

It's casual, "dress down" day attire for six actors who without benefit of scenery enact key events in the life of Christ, using the 1611 King James translation of the four gospels as their script. Turning the good book into a series of sound bites and giving it some coherence is quite an accomplishment and the script reflects good editing and condensing techniques. The actors all speak with conviction as they deliver a series of biblical quotations which come together to form events loosely divided into segments entitled: Nativity; Sermon on the Mount; The Ministry; Entry into Jerusalem; Passion; Resurrection. Unfortunately even believers will have trouble sticking with this one. There is no study guide, so those for whom the good news is news will probably have trouble following the course of events, and those who really know their scripture or wish to savor the beauty and flow of the language will find the presentation inadequate. And finally, it is just plain boring watching six actors, shifting positions on a bare stage, switching roles to dizzying effect. For those who would find such material inspirational, there are doubtless better formats, such as a biblical book of days, which are better suited to the task. Not recommended. P. (J. Reed)