Jesus Christ: The Lost Years - Frothy Faith

Monster Theatre's Jesus Christ: The Lost Years is an energetically performed hour of good, clean fun. 

Ryan Gladstone and Katherine Sanders tag team to play the various characters from Jesus' youth as he embarks on a highly entertaining quest to determine his true identity.  The result is a fast and frothy piece of entertainment for believers and non-believers alike.  The piece errs on the side of cute rather than controversial and the story is more creative than irreverent. Judas, John the Baptist, Mary Magdalene, lepers, Elvis and a space alien are just a sampling of the figures that make an appearance.  And, oh yes, there are puppets.

Written by Gladstone, Sanders, and Bruce Horak (who also directed), the piece débuted in the 2006 Fringe and is now acting as the centerpiece for the Here Be Monster's Festival.  According to a post show chat with Ryan Gladstone, they created the show in just three weeks.  I particularly enjoyed Gladstone and Sander's sharing of the roles (even Jesus).  Their versatility and energy kept the energy of the show rolling and spawned moments of pure hilarity.  Drew Jerecka's sound design supported the story and fleshed out musical numbers (oh yes, there are musical numbers) that may have otherwise seemed a bit barren.

Full of lively performances and creative storytelling, Jesus Christ: The Lost Years won't cause any revelations, but it sure is a fun way to spend an hour.