 08/31/2006 - J. Cauffiel
Sexy, irreverent, funny, moving: dares the audience to confront their beliefs and see Jesus as Joshua, the Everyman: fallible, undeniably human. Rich, warm, genuine, powerful performances. The ensemble, w/ Austen Rey as a scintillating Judas, is superb. James Brandon, in a riveting, electric turn as Joshua, drives the evening--his gentleness, sensitivity, and passionate fire keep everything dynamic, impactful, real. McNally's play focuses on one man's journey from fear, rejection, degradation, into courage, strength, unconditional love and acceptance of the self and others--and the healing and liberation that is born of such love. "Corpus Christi" lifts the tale up out of the darkness of suffering and into the Light of Love, and leaves it there. After the cast shuffles out, the audience finds itself in a space of beauty, hope...even peace. In Los Angeles? Now, that's a miracle. 08/28/2006 - Peter S. I saw this production a few years ago but nothing compares to the lively, compelling and prolific piece that I saw this past weekend. This fully realized production brought to life the harrowing story of Jesus through a passionate and talented ensemble, inventive staging and a very moving ending. James Brandon is stunning. Please see this show. 09/09/06- Jefferey M. I was thinking about the play again and was so blown away. I literally experienced so many emotions that it reminded me of a Kundalini class in a way. I laughed so hard I bent over and wept tears of sadness, joy, and sweetness. Thank you for all your amazing nuanced and multidimensional performances." 9/1/06- Steven Stanley CORPUS CHRISTI: (at the Zephyr on Melrose): My highest recommendation for this production, which I saw twice at MCC of the Valley. James Brandon is heartbreaking perfection as Joshua (the gay Jesus figure) in Terrence McNally's controversial play. Nic Arnzen's direction is inspired, and the mixed gender cast (McNally wrote it for an all male actors) all contribute beautiful performances. Regardless of where you are on your journey of faith, this is a show which will move you incredibly.  5 stars! Quite unconventional, but entertaining and very well performed ensemble piece. A must see for all compassionate, open-minded Christians and non-Christians alike.
5 stars! I was familiar with McNally's script & was grateful to watch a cast that obviously cared about the script and each other. It's a delicate and important story and I felt it was well told with some outstanding performances, especially by the lead character, Joshua. 5 stars! As a gay believer in Christ, I found this play both disturbing and profoundly moving. This play will appeal to an audience that both respects the Christ story and is open to considering it from a new spiritual, yet less religious, perspective. 5 stars! One of the greatest actors' ensembles you will see anywhere. 5 stars! A beautiful, humorous, and poignant re-telling of the Life — the Message — of Jesus. In its poetic simplicity, this play captures the essence of his ideas, the golden heart of a man whose words have been twisted to create a fear-based religion that ironically preaches the opposite of everything of which he stood. The gay content, mixed with the brilliant cross-gender casting and modern setting create a framework of which Jesus's life can be told. Was Jesus gay? I don't know. Maybe, maybe not. It's about as important to me as the gender of the person playing the characters in this play. Underneath it all we are more alike than not. We are all human. We are all Divine. I am blessed to know I spent my Easter hearing this story as if for the first time. Do yourself a favor, for God's sake – go!  In this season of Easter eggs and rabbit-shaped chocolate, I am feeling a bit less like the children celebrating Easter in new bonnets than the disciples on the road to Emmaus.
This is my first Easter since the death of my beloved grandmother, and I find myself, like those travelers, still trying to talk about what happened and why instead of noticing the risen savior walking along with me. Like Cleopas, I find myself asking, “Don’t you know what’s going on? A pretty important and amazing person has died, and you’re not even paying attention.” I know I’ve heard that Christ is supposed to have risen, but I’m not always sure I believe it when sometimes it’s hard to feel him in my midst. My conversion moment came as I broke bread with the cast of the passion play Corpus Christi. The remarkable thing about this play is not its setting (1950s Corpus Christi, Texas) or its characters (who all happen to be gay), but the way in which the cast of thirteen live out and convey the gospel on the stage and off. Their love for each other is palpable, viscerally swelling the heart and shaking the foundations of the soul. These men and women were my reminder that the love of Jesus of Nazareth is still alive, and is reborn with each Easter and each act of love. I know that I cannot help but live out the discipleship modeled by my grandmother when she was alive, because that love lives in me and has made me who I am. I don’t know what heaven or resurrection look like, but I know that my grandmother is walking with Jesus, who I frequently imagine in the form of Joshua from Corpus Christi. |
 5 stars Beautiful and profound, October 23, 2008
Reviewer: leolion2005 We recently saw Corpus Christi production and thought it was wonderful: funny, heart-wrenching and moving. The story is of course quite familiar and at first we were a little unsure that such a bare bones production would be anything more than a well-intentioned cliche, but it was much, much more. The ensemble production works beautifully, and the play was ultimately very joyful - we walked out very grateful we had made the effort and highly recommend that people go to see it during its very brief run.  5 stars! Wow 25 Aug 2007
reviewer: Michael, Glasgow Reading the summary I was expecting a farcical comedy that mocked the story of Jesus... what I got was entirely the opposite and I will be forever grateful. Being fairly religious myself I have to say I wasn't offended in the slightest - the story highlights what the new testament is really about: hope, love, forgiveness and sacrifice! No matter how ridiculous you think a gay love affair between Jesus and Judas may be, hold your breath before seeing this. The two leads perfected the characters and I was truly moved as a member of the audience. The staging and dramatic approach is almost flawless and the production a definite breath of fresh air to the world of theatre. This show is not for everyone but if you are looking for a thought-provoking, funny and poignant story, look no further than the bedlam theatre! Well done guys :D 5 stars! a perfect production 02 Oct 2007 reviewer: Paul Griffiths, United Kingdom This is without doubt the best show I’ve seen at the Fringe this year. Seen it twice, and found it very moving both times. It’s beautifully directed, lit and performed, and the loving family feeling created by all 13 members warms the heart. It makes you think, but also makes you want to hug all the cast and thank them for telling the story. You can tell that every single actor feels so passionate about the play, which again is a rare experience to witness, and at the end, their passion is what makes this such a special production. High praise to the director Nic Arnzen, and also to James Brandon and Chris Payne who are amazing. Thank you guys for bringing this to the festival, and hopefully will see you again in Dublin. A MUST SEE! 5 stars! Let's go on a journey 06 Aug 2007 reviewer: Andrew, United Kingdom Energetic, funny, hard-hitting and deeply moving. This is far more than entertainment; it's an experience. The themes challenge our understanding of faith in a modern world: God can be found in the most unlikely of places... Thanks to the cast and crew for an incredible effort! 5 stars! A Massive thumbs Up!!! 23 Aug 2007 reviewer: Mike, Edinburgh I saw another production a few years ago and wanted to compare - very different. I wasn't sure about females playing male characters but you soon don't see the gender - just the story unfolding. Supported by a very strong cast, James Brandon (Joshua) and Chris Payne (Judas) were very strong leading men portraying a believable love story. Both actor's portrayals were excellent and should be applauded. Much better production than last time (sorry to the previous production and cast) and I'm not ashamed to say that I cried, such was James' performance towards the end of the piece leading up to the crucifixion. Highly recommended - well done. 5 stars! Made Me Cry 20 Aug 2007 reviewer: Jamie, Scotland Saw the guy who plays Jesus on the cover of ScotsGay magazine, read the review and the interview and thought - yay - I'll go along and see for myself. This play is about hope and about standing up for what is right. The cast was top notch. And, yes, by the end I was moved to tears. And that's a first for me. 5 stars! Surprised and Delighted 09 Aug 2007 reviewer: Emma, Scotland This show was astounding. Having heard about the controversy surrounding this play, I was completely surprised to find a show that simply used the issue of sexuality to question what was the true message of the story of Jesus. I walked away moved, challenged and completely amazed. If you see one show this year, this should be it. 5 stars! Not just for Jesus freaks 09 Aug 2007 reviewer: Lewis, United Kingdom Corpus Christi is a compelling and provoking play that is not just for 'Jesus freaks'; it is a many- layered piece exploring difference, growing up gay, forgiveness and human relationships. Whatever your faith experience there is something here for everyone. Heart wrenching and yet humorous, you will laugh and cry at this well acted play with a strong cast. If you see nothing else, see this one. 5 stars! Corpus Again 09 Aug 2007 reviewer: Robin Bold, United Kingdom Seen a version of this at Bedlam a few years ago, was doubtful about seeing it again, but the re-interpretation of the story removed any doubts, it was a wonderful show, wept along with the cast... the line "did you see what they did to him" made it for me the tingling event of the day! 10/10.  photo by MIGUEL VASCONCELLOS, THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER |
Personal Letters to the Cast and Crew
April 2007
You were with me tonight as I watched Corpus Christi. I was and still am so moved; words can’t describe the experience. I walked away feeling expansion, joy, sadness, connected-ness. I am so grateful to feel so connected I fought back tears till I decided not to label them but just feel them.
The real gratitude came when I realized I have others in my life who would completely understand what I was feeling and be willing to go there themselves. Two hearts one soul..I am honored and humbled by what unfolds, unravels, and is given to us every moment. May we continue to embrace and to share the beauty of a full and loving heart.
See you soon.
Love and Blessings
Mark Peterson, San Francisco, CA
June 30, 2007
Today I sat in the front row at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco for your matinee performance of Corpus Christi. It was a moving and exhilarating performance. Thirty-two years ago I was an out of work former clergyman with no friends and no family, all as a result of coming out. Since then I have had a twenty year relationship with a man I loved who passed away from lung cancer, and in my late sixties I have now been in a new relationship for almost five years. That background makes me especially appreciative of what you are doing with this play. Although my resources are limited, I would like to offer some support for the group's trip to Scotland. Please tell me how to send a check for this support.
Thanks very much.
Bruce G. Dahms, San Mateo, CA
July 22, 2007
Dear Cast,
Never in my life have I seen a more moving, well acted, better put together performance as I saw last night. It went far, far beyond what was promised. I do not have the words to tell you how deeply I was affected by what I experienced last night. And one thing stood out, you know what you are doing; you know what you have. You are the hope of this world, what God intended us to be. I know that sounds corny, but it gives me a little hope where there once was none. What went on that stage went far beyond just acting, that was magic. I feel so blessed to have been one allowed to witness such an event. The love and respect shown on the stage before, during and after the performance; the warmth and honor shown to cast and audience both gave the play even more meaning and brought home what Joshua/Jesus (who was awesome) was trying to teach. Thank you for an experience of a lifetime.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL
Don Christopher Morton
April 2008
Nic, Brandon and the rest of the cast,
What an amazing experience I had last night when you performed in Palm Springs. I have to say, I was totally immersed and lost in the emotional landscape you created. It is rare in theater to be so swept away, and may I add, wept away, by a performance.
Each of you adds light to the world every time you do your show. With the state of affairs now, that is no small thing.
Brandon, I was literally transfixed and transformed by your "being" on stage. Everyone was wonderful but I kept being compelled to watch you, searching within myself as the words came out of your mouth, remembering what is important and what is not. Thank you for the gift you gave me.
Having been in the theater and music world all my life, it is a joy to have been in that space last night. It is not often and only rarely one gets to experience theater as I did last night.
I will support all of you in whatever ways I can and congratulate each and every one of you for holding on in spite of obstacles and giving the world you very special gift.
Namaste, peace and light,
Grant
You were with me tonight as I watched Corpus Christi. I was and still am so moved; words can’t describe the experience. I walked away feeling expansion, joy, sadness, connected-ness. I am so grateful to feel so connected I fought back tears till I decided not to label them but just feel them.
The real gratitude came when I realized I have others in my life who would completely understand what I was feeling and be willing to go there themselves. Two hearts one soul..I am honored and humbled by what unfolds, unravels, and is given to us every moment. May we continue to embrace and to share the beauty of a full and loving heart.
See you soon.
Love and Blessings
Mark Peterson, San Francisco, CA
June 30, 2007
Today I sat in the front row at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco for your matinee performance of Corpus Christi. It was a moving and exhilarating performance. Thirty-two years ago I was an out of work former clergyman with no friends and no family, all as a result of coming out. Since then I have had a twenty year relationship with a man I loved who passed away from lung cancer, and in my late sixties I have now been in a new relationship for almost five years. That background makes me especially appreciative of what you are doing with this play. Although my resources are limited, I would like to offer some support for the group's trip to Scotland. Please tell me how to send a check for this support.
Thanks very much.
Bruce G. Dahms, San Mateo, CA
July 22, 2007
Dear Cast,
Never in my life have I seen a more moving, well acted, better put together performance as I saw last night. It went far, far beyond what was promised. I do not have the words to tell you how deeply I was affected by what I experienced last night. And one thing stood out, you know what you are doing; you know what you have. You are the hope of this world, what God intended us to be. I know that sounds corny, but it gives me a little hope where there once was none. What went on that stage went far beyond just acting, that was magic. I feel so blessed to have been one allowed to witness such an event. The love and respect shown on the stage before, during and after the performance; the warmth and honor shown to cast and audience both gave the play even more meaning and brought home what Joshua/Jesus (who was awesome) was trying to teach. Thank you for an experience of a lifetime.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL
Don Christopher Morton
April 2008
Nic, Brandon and the rest of the cast,
What an amazing experience I had last night when you performed in Palm Springs. I have to say, I was totally immersed and lost in the emotional landscape you created. It is rare in theater to be so swept away, and may I add, wept away, by a performance.
Each of you adds light to the world every time you do your show. With the state of affairs now, that is no small thing.
Brandon, I was literally transfixed and transformed by your "being" on stage. Everyone was wonderful but I kept being compelled to watch you, searching within myself as the words came out of your mouth, remembering what is important and what is not. Thank you for the gift you gave me.
Having been in the theater and music world all my life, it is a joy to have been in that space last night. It is not often and only rarely one gets to experience theater as I did last night.
I will support all of you in whatever ways I can and congratulate each and every one of you for holding on in spite of obstacles and giving the world you very special gift.
Namaste, peace and light,
Grant
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