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'Traveling
Light'
named for Jesus |
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By JULIE McHALE
- TimeOut Theater Critic
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November 6,
2009 |
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"Traveling Light"
is a clever name for a show about Jesus and his followers.
He was considered by many to be "the light," but those
that followed him were expected to give up their worldly goods
in order to be members of his entourage, thus to travel
"light."
The one-man performance by the gifted Alan Atwood is as
well-conceived and executed as the title of the drama. From the
moment he came on stage at the Todd Wehr Theatre at Concordia
University Wisconsin, we were hooked by this modern version of
the Bible story.
With a simple open trunk as his only prop along with an array of
quick-change costumes, Atwood brought to life an array of
characters associated with Jesus’ public mission.
Peter and Matthew were the most carefully delineated personages,
but we met many others along the way – the other apostles, the
infirm whom he cured, the smug Pharisees, others who inspired
his parables, and those involved in his execution, such as
Pilate and Herod.
There was a noticeable absence of the important women in Jesus’
life, such as his mother and Mary Magdalene, but it was probably
a wise choice on playwright Enscoe’s part.
Since a man was playing all the characters, these holy women may
have come across as caricatures, which would have destroyed the
inherent reverence of the piece.
What made the presentation so fascinating was Atwood’s ability
to take on different accents and the body language of many
characters with ease and credibility.
Many of the perceptions shared in the story provoked laughter in
the audience. The simple faith of some of his followers was
inspiring, and we began to wonder how we would have regarded
this magical figure if we had encountered Jesus in person.
Was he a hoax, a crazy man, someone to be feared or someone to
revere and to whom one should listen?
The lighting effects provided by Dan Hummel and the sound clips
which served as transitions between various incidents designed
by Atwood’s son Ryan both served the show well.
Even those without a strong belief in the life and teachings of
Jesus would enjoy this rendition of this classic story, if for
nothing other than its narrative and dramatic values.
I can well understand why this story by Lawrence G. Enscoe,
based on the gospel of St. Mark and so stirringly told by Alan
Atwood, has been a big draw in hundreds of congregations and
conferences around the country. Atwood is the co-founder of
Acacia Theatre and served as its artistic director for nine
years.
Presently he is the pastor of drama at Eastbrook Church, where
he uses his dramatic ability to spread the good tidings of the
gospel.
The show runs through Sunday at Concordia University in Mequon.
Call 414-744-5995 for times and tickets. It’s worth the ride.
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