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Church Basement To Broadway
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Getting people to show up to learn about the Bible can be a challenge for many churches. A United Methodist church in Washington State has found a way to share a Bible story with hundreds of people a night with all the glitz and glamour of Broadway. Kim Riemland reports on an outreach ministry that has people clamoring for a seat. |
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SCRIPT:
On a snowy Saturday morning at Federal Way United Methodist Church, they’re practicing the tango in the sanctuary. And an internationally acclaimed opera tenor is belting out a tune in the basement.
The church is bringing a little “Broadway” to the Bible, putting on a musical with a cast that includes professional actors and dancers, and sought-after singers.
Andrew Miller / Music Director, Federal Way United Methodist Church: “It’s just unbelievable, the cast. In fact, a director friend from another company called me and said, ‘How did you assemble that group of folks for this show?’ It’s going to be amazing.”
The church commissioned Andrew Miller, its music director, to write and produce an original show based on a story from the Bible. They’re even recording a CD with the Seattle Symphony.
International opera star Robert McPherson says this is a high-level production.
Robert McPherson: “The whole idea was not to do a church musical; it was to create a show. And have a show that is exciting, entertaining, beautifully done and the music is moving.”
Six sold-out shows last spring convinced the church to re-offer the musical, this time to a larger audience. There’s even some interest from New York to possibly produce the show on a bigger scale.
“The Prodigal” is based on the Bible story of a rebellious son who leaves his family, blows his inheritance, and is later accepted home with forgiveness and unconditional love.
It’s a message this church hopes to take from basement to Broadway stage. I’m Kim Riemland reporting.
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“The Prodigal” has an upcoming two-and-a-half-week run at a community performing arts center.