Theatrical productions have long mined the Bible for inspiration, and Palatine’s Wood Street Theater Company is borrowing a few of its tales too.
On Thursday the community troupe will open “And on the Sixth Day…” a musical based on stories from the Old Testament at Cutting Hall, 150 E. Wood St., Palatine.
A conflict runs throughout the production.
“Satan continues to trick people with temptations while God always sees further,” said Susannah Kist, the director and producer.
“Satan’s plans always end up leading people to God.”
Dave Reiser of Palatine, who wrote the show with the late Jack Sharkey, said the production is theologically sound.
“When we did this production several years ago, people told us they learned more about the Bible in two hours than they did in years of Sunday school.” Reiser said.
“While the songs are clever and the drama funny, it’s also very reverent and will appeal to people from most faith traditions,” Kist said.
The cast of 37 includes professionals and first-time actors. The diversity reflects Wood Street’s desire to get families involved.
“I like to provide creative space for people and watch them blossom,” said Kist, who also teaches music, voice and drama at the Music Room in Palatine. “One mom had always wanted to act in high school but never got the chance until she auditioned with her daughter. It’s been great to mix well-seasoned actors with people who have never been on stage.”
“And on the Sixth Day…” is Wood Street’s fourth production since the non-profit theater debuted in December 2001.
The musical will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Jan. 10, 17 and 18, and 3 p.m. Jan. 12.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors and students. For more information call 847-338-0706, or e-mail WoodStTheater@aol.com.
