Advertisement

Sister' teaches the reason for the season

By John Quinn

Mary Zentmyer stars as the good Sister in the Century Theatre's holiday production of "Sister's Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold." Photo: Century Theatre

For many of us, a trip to the Century Theatre this month is a trip through the WayBack machine to a time when moral issues were as black and white as a nun's habit. "Sister's Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold" is the latest entry to the "Late Night Catechism" series. The setting is evening in a Catholic school classroom. Sister is teaching the faith to those kids unlucky enough to attend public school. Tonight is special – it's Christmas time, and after the lesson we're going to have a party! Sister is a strict disciplinarian, so it's lesson first, party later. Like any good elementary teacher, Sister wants a lot of class participation. I sat in the back, as usual, because although I knew ALL the answers (Catholic school, you know) I don't like to be called on.
Sister has been spending her free time watching episodes of "Forensic Files" on truTV and is ready to use her skills to solve a biblical mystery. The Magi brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the Baby Jesus. We know what happened to the frankincense and myrrh – they went a long way to mask the odor in that stable – but what happened to the gold? We're going to investigate a 2,000-year-old theft by recreating the crime scene. Sister is going to stage a living Nativity using class members.
Simple concept isn't it? Simple to execute? Oh, no. There's magic in the room, and it's not due to the Christmas spirit. Maripat Donovan's script is a funny, gentle salute to the dedicated teachers who tried to explain the unexplainable to reluctant blockheads. It's never mean nor does it trade on the "Nun Nazi" stereotype. But in a one-woman show, everything depends on the actress. Mary Zentmyer may be experienced in this type of play and she obviously has a collection of stock bits to which she can turn. That can't explain the joyous spontaneity of her performance – she quite simply owns the character. With this script and director Marc Silvia's light touch, the evening is a delight. Also worthy of mention is Scot Cleaveland's lovingly rendered set, so reminiscent of the '50s you'll swear you smell chalk dust.
While the play is especially attractive to adult Catholics who remember the "old days," the "publics" among you won't feel left out. You'll find out how "the way we were" made us "the way we are." But fair warning to all of you: If you value your dignity, do NOT sass Sister! She's dealt with your kind before, and is one step ahead of any shenanigans you're likely to pull!

REVIEW:
'Sister's Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold'
The Century Theatre, 333 Madison St., Detroit. Wednesday-Sunday through Dec. 31, with additional performances Dec. 27-28; no performances Dec. 20-26. $27.50-$32.50. 313-963-9800. http://www.gemtheatre.com

Advertisement
Advertisement

From the Pride Source Marketplace

Go to the Marketplace
Advertisement