LATE NIGHT CATECHISM–THIRD TIME’S A CHARM

30. May 2009 by admin.

LATE NIGHT CATECHISM—THIRD TIME’S A CHARM

F. J. Hartland  

          City Theatre presents the third part of the Late Night Catechism titled ‘Til Death Do Us Part.  Since I haven’t seen the first two parts, I can’t say that this one is the best—but it is a charming and highly entertaining evening. 

           Written by Maripat Donovan (who played the original “Sister”), the show is essentially a class in Catholic Doctrine—warts and all. 

           There isn’t a great deal of “show,” but Kimberly Richards excels in improvisation as she interacts with the audience.  And discipline is the watch word in Sister’s classroom.  Be sure to sit up straight and dispose of your gum before you enter the Lester Hamburg Theatre!  And for Heaven’s sake, raise your hand before you speak. 

            Richards is so convincing as Sister that I heard several patrons ask her after the show if she was indeed “a real nun.”    This is a real testament to the actress who commands the stage for nearly two hours with never a dull moment. 

           The question-and-answer period is particularly fun (and brave of Richards) as she opens up the floor for the audience to raise any issues dealing with Catholicism.  Not only is she remarkably knowledgeable, she is also has some funny comebacks. 

           When the question was raised about only Catholics going to Heaven, she pointed out that Vatican II had dispelled that idea.  “There are many rooms in Heaven,” Sister said, “But the Presbyterians have the one next to the elevator and the ice machine.” 

           If you go, be sure to ask her about what became of all those “pagan babies” that generations of parochial school children raised funds for many years ago.  The answer is a hoot. 

           The scripted part of the show deals with the topics of marriage and the blessings on the sick—two topics Sister feels are related.  For those of you not knowledgeable about Catholic Doctrine, the blessing for the sick is what used to be known as “The Last Rites.”  Sister explains the name was changed because it was “such a downer.” 

           Tony Ferrieri’s set will make you truly believe you are sitting in a class room.  From the polished hardwood floor to the wainscoting to the dingy painted walls, no detail is over-looked.  There are old-style school desks, the cursive alphabet hanging over the chalkboard and enough icons to fill a small shrine.

            Even if your aren’t Catholic, ‘Til Death Do Us Part is still a delightful evening of fun.  Because there is so much improvisation and audience interaction, each performance will be different.  But I am certain that Kimberly Richards will make each show worth seeing. 

           ‘Til Death Do Us Part continues at City Theatre through July.

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