“Jesus Hopped the A Train”, a play touching topics such as prison life, justice in the legal system, and God’s place in it all, is an in-your-face performance that gives meaning and importance back to live
theater.
Walking in to the GablesStage Theater, a close, intimate atmosphere is created as the owner greets his guests, and stagehands dressed as correctional officers hand out playbills. The small area holds no more than a hundred and fifty seats and the first row is so close to the stage, that it is not uncommon for an occasional drop of sweat, or even spit, to reach the audience. However, this detail is just one of the many aspects of GablesStage that makes it inviting to all who are willing to trade in their movie stub for an afternoon at the theater.
Beginning at the cue for “lights up”, it is clear that this performance does not shy away from the ugly truths regarding life in prison. There is no deficiency of harsh language and violent treatment, just adding to the intensity and apparent emotional investment the actors have put into this piece. Although the language can be rough on the ears and the cruelty hard to bear, it invokes a sense of sympathy among the audience for the prisoners, raising the question of the humanity of it all.
Leads Arturo Fernandez and Bechir Sylvain, two inmates convicted of murder, are immediately capture the attention of the audience due to the captivating dialogue that invokes thought provoking questions for the audience members. The content addressed within this two hour performance brings up questions regarding morality that many are commonly too reserved to confront. The outstanding performances by Fernandez and Sylvain give the audience an all too real depiction of life as a convicted felon. By humanizing these individuals by giving them pasts and relatable emotions, it once again deals with an uncomfortable topic; whether or not we should consider these men monsters or human beings.
Sheaun McKinney, playing the part of a vicious correctional officer sees the legal system as black and white. He believes that these men are “worthless piece[es] of scum” and his violent treatment is seen as justice towards the families of their victims. It is easy for one to see a bit of their narrow-minded opinions in this character, allowing for additional points of views. “I am the constitution!” McKinney shouts, exemplifying his abusive treatment towards the convicts. The forwardness of McKinney’s character reminds the audience of the feelings they may have at times, yet are necessary to suppress if we are to sustain our sense of justice.
In addition, the lawyer of Fernandez, played by Kameshia Duncan, covers all perspectives of the legal system by vindicating the murder as one of necessity; “doing a bigger good from what was a small bad.” No matter what one’s opinion of criminals may be, whether anchored or swaying, a parallel can be found in one of these characters.
Throughout the entire play, the existence of God is questioned. The material deals with religion, yet focuses more on the emotional meaning of its existence. As the characters question their relationship with God, they are also pondering their salvation and worth in his eyes. The audience too catches themselves asking “What makes one a sinner?” Some may see these criminals as “defective evolution,” however isn’t it said that God forgives all? These are a few of the many topics Ground up & Rising, the company that presents “Jesus Hopped the A Train”, is not afraid to address in their performances.
While it may seem an overbearing topic, comedic relief is also provided in the dialogue. If it is too much for an audience member to take in one sitting, they are saved by the fifteen minute intermission.
Many other plays would just dismiss the audience by bringing up the house lights, but for this unique piece, a ‘Code Red’ was announced and the building was asked to be evacuated until it was safe. This attention to detail keeps the audience involved in the story line even as they meander outside the entrance only five minutes after being let out.
After the bow from the actors, it was said among the audience “that the only word to describe that performance, is ‘wow’.” The thought provoking plot, exceptional cast and personal connection felt between the audience and actors are just a few of the reasons why the GablesStage is a wonderful place to spend your afternoon. Although “Jesus Hopped the A Train” did not run for more than a few weeks, new and exciting performances are featured every month at GablesStage. |
