By L.A. Nicholson
On Saturday, October 21, at approximately 6:30 p.m., the curtains were raised to herald the premier of Anna-Lee Glanville’s play, “Not Ashamed.” The packed audience at the Tarrant Baptist Church was treated to a theatre-ready production that started on a high note which was sustained right up to curtain fall.
Read what some of the viewers had to say:
BOB-G, AGE 64, Computer Engineer
“It was a good play, and congratulations to all who made it possible. The singing was very good as well, and the story line was interesting. The ending was my favourite because everyone realised that Jesus is the way and only He can help.
I was sitting about four rows from the back to the far right of the stage, and I think the sound could have been better. There were times that I could not hear the dialogue clearly. I would have paid approximately $800 to attend if there was a cost.”
MARCIA WILLIAMS, AGE 61, Medical Rep and Real Estate Agent
“According to I Cor. 12vs 11 & Eph 4:12: all these things, the gifts, achievements, the abilities, the empowering are brought about by the one and same (Holy Spirit), distributing to each one individually just as He chooses…for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.
I was extremely excited when I heard about the drama production “Not Ashamed,” and I was not disappointed.
The stage was set, and the excitement started to build from Scene 1. I was seated very close to the front and found that the technical aspects, viz., clarity of voices, lighting, sound, and costumes, were all very well executed. The overhead projectors were also strategically placed.
The plot, as I understand it, surrounded, inter alia, the life and experiences of a young woman, “Chantelle,” who lived in the ghetto and was a self-declared atheist with “a praying grandmother.” Unknown to her, “Jason,” her boyfriend, was leading a double life, and she was totally devastated when she found out, for it triggered memories of a horrific childhood encounter.
The plot was expertly crafted, built up over the duration of the production, and came to a crescendo when Chantelle cried out to God and released all her pain, submitting everything to Him. Jason also repented and obtained forgiveness for his wayward ways. This was the most impactful part of the production for me, as it showed the forgiving and redeeming nature of the Lord in the lives of sinners whom He came to save.
The experiences of Kimone, a new convert, were also highlighted. Maltreated because of her new-found faith, she stood steadfast and experienced God’s provision in a marvellous way. The sign language and dance ministries were also included in the play, and their anointed offerings further reinforced the message of redemption.
It was a sterling production. Although there was humour in the plot, there was a distinct shift towards the end when the acting ceased and the anointing of the Holy Spirit took over.
Advertised as free, $2000 per person would have been a fair price. Having longed for events of this nature for both the fellowship and the anointed ministry in the performing arts, the audience was most appreciative. Congrats, Not Ashamed!”
KAREN GOULDBOURNE-CHIN, AGELESS, Teacher
““Not Ashamed” will have us being very reflective on past hurt, times when we didn’t accept responsibility for our actions, didn’t forgive ourselves, and others.
As each scene unfolded, depicting various characters’ lives, woes, friendships, and the love of Christ when we feel like all is lost, this play is a reminder that we have purpose, inspite of our pitfalls.
I was impressed by the quick transition of the set-up for the different scenes. I was at the back of the church, and the visuals and audio were clear, as was the lighting. The audio for one character was problematic for me; her part was well dramatised, but she needed to slow down her lines for word recognition.
I could really feel the presence of God in the play. The characters played each part well for people who are not trained in theatre arts, and I appreciated the inclusion of the dance and sign language groups.
You have to see the SWORD MASTER for yourself! He cut down ANYTHING that was unclean in this story. The power of the Holy Spirit was felt with each use of this sword.
I go to a lot of plays, and this was very good.”
TORRY-ANN, AGE 16, Student
“In the beginning, I could not hear very well, but it got better with time. I was seated near the sign language students. The view of the stage was not perfect, but the projectors helped a lot. The lighting was perfect and added to the necessary effects and overall mood of the play.
The story line was great, the characters really held me from the start, and the theme was portrayed well.
For me, the most impactful part of “Not Ashamed” was when all three main characters received their breakthroughs. Cords were cut loose and chains were broken, and you could feel the emotion and sensitivity of people’s real-life problems, how they dealt with them, and how God helped them to triumph.
I would pay up to $2000 for a ticket.
Overall, it was a lovely and insightful play, and I would definitely want to see a recorded version or again in person.”
TYLER PINNOCK, AGE 17, Student
“My family was fortunate to be among the many attendees at the play “Not Ashamed.” The experience was truly enjoyable, and there were numerous moments that not only tickled our funny bones but also warmed our hearts.
I found myself resonating deeply with some of the characters, a testament to the thought and care that went into crafting their personas. The overarching message of the play was undeniably powerful and resonated strongly with my Christian beliefs, leaving me, and I’m sure many others, feeling immensely empowered.
I would offer $500 if it were to aid in optimising the quality of future church events like this play. Such meaningful and well-executed productions deserve our support to continue flourishing.
“Not Asamed” was exceptional, but I had a problem with audibility: some characters were shouting too loudly or speaking too softly. Conversations during intermission revealed similar frustrations. Despite this, the overall experience was exceptionally positive, and as I left the venue, it was with a sense of satisfaction and anticipation for more inspiring performances. The play not only entertained but also touched the soul, making the occasional inconvenience forgivable in the grand scheme of things. It delivered an inspiring message and left a lasting impression on its audience.
As an eager supporter of the church’s endeavours, I look forward to more uplifting and enriching experiences like this in the future.”
