Home » Entertainment » Marquette University Alumnus Brings ‘The Gospel of Mark in Performance’ to Helfaer Theatre on Sept. 18-19

Marquette University Alumnus Brings ‘The Gospel of Mark in Performance’ to Helfaer Theatre on Sept. 18-19

Marquette Alumnus to Stage ‘The gospel of Mark in Performance

Milwaukee, WI – Reverend George Drance, a distinguished alumnus of Marquette University, is set to present his compelling solo performance, “The Gospel of Mark in Performance,” at the Evan and Marion P. Helfaer Theatre. Performances are scheduled for september 18th and 19th, each beginning at 4:30 p.m. This innovative production promises to offer a fresh viewpoint on a timeless story.

Reclaiming the Original Message

“The Gospel of Mark in Performance” endeavors to recapture the raw power and immediacy of the Gospel’s original message. The performance will portray the narrative as it might have been shared by early Christians, operating in secrecy amidst challenging times. This approach intends to connect with audiences on a deeper, more visceral level.

A Fusion of storytelling and Music

The production will feature original music composed by Elizabeth Swados, effectively bridging the gap between ancient text and contemporary sensibilities. This musical accompaniment is designed to elevate the emotional resonance of the Gospel narratives and transport the audience into the heart of the story. Drance initially presented this unique interpretation in 2014 at the esteemed La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club.

The performances are generously sponsored by the Marquette Jesuit community and are freely accessible to the public.The Marquette Jesuit community’s support underscores the university’s commitment to both artistic expression and spiritual exploration. Did You Know? The Jesuit order, founded by St. Ignatius of Loyola, has a long tradition of supporting the arts as a means of fostering dialog and understanding.

Drance’s Extensive Background

Reverend Drance brings a wealth of experience to this production. He has spent decades performing and directing in over 25 countries across five continents, collaborating with renowned theater companies such as Teatro la fragua in Honduras and Kenya’s Theatre YETU. He currently serves as the artistic director of the acclaimed Magis Theatre Company, which has received praise from the New York Times for its innovative and daring artistic vision, and is also an Artist-in-Residence at Fordham University.

Drance’s acting career extends to prominent venues like ETC, The Metropolitan Opera, The Public theatre, and the American Repertory Theater. He has also dedicated his talents to educational settings, including the Marist International Center in Nairobi and Red Cloud High school. His television credits include appearances on “The Blacklist” and “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah.”

Performance Details Details
Dates September 18-19, 2025
Time 4:30 PM each day
Location Evan and marion P. Helfaer Theatre, Milwaukee
Admission Free and open to the public

Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good seat, as these performances are expected to draw a meaningful audience.

The production promises a unique and compelling interpretation of the Gospel of Mark.will this performance resonate with audiences seeking a fresh perspective on this ancient text? What impact will Drance’s global experience bring to his portrayal of this pivotal story?

The Enduring power of Performance

The use of performance to convey religious narratives is a tradition that stretches back centuries. From medieval mystery plays to modern theatrical adaptations, the stage has consistently served as a powerful medium for exploring faith and spirituality.In recent years, there has been a growing interest in reclaiming the original, communal aspects of storytelling, as highlighted by productions like “The Gospel of Mark in Performance.” This approach recognizes that the power of a story frequently enough lies not just in its content, but also in the way it is indeed shared and experienced.


Share your thoughts on this exciting event! What are your expectations for the performance of “the Gospel of Mark in performance”? Leave a comment below.

How does the performance leverage the Marquette University connection, specifically the involvement of an alumnus?

Marquette Alumnus Presents ‘The Gospel of Mark in Performance’ at Helfaer Theater

Get ready for a unique theatrical experience! Marquette University welcomes back an alumnus to present a compelling performance of ‘The Gospel of Mark’ at the Helfaer Theatre. This event promises to be a thought-provoking and engaging exploration of the biblical text, offering a fresh viewpoint on a familiar story.Discover the dates, details, and what makes this production a must-see.

Event Details: A Theatrical Interpretation

Dates: September 18-19, 2025

Location: Helfaer Theatre, Marquette University

Focus: A performance of the Gospel of Mark, adapted for the stage.

Target Audience: Students, faculty, community members, and anyone interested in theater, religion, and the arts.

The Marquette Connection: An Alumnus Returns

the driving force behind this production is a Marquette University alumnus. The talent and experience of this individual, combined with the academic and artistic resources of the university, create a unique setting for performance. This event also showcases the university’s commitment to the arts and its alumni.

Why Attend? Key Benefits of This Performance

Attending this production of ‘The Gospel of Mark in Performance’ provides numerous benefits:

* Unique Artistic Experience: Witness a fresh interpretation of a classic text, bringing the Gospel to life through acting and stagecraft.

* intellectual Stimulation: Explore the narrative and themes of the Gospel of Mark in a dynamic and accessible format.

* community Engagement: Support the arts, engage with the university community, and share a collective cultural experience.

* Opportunity for Reflection: Allow for a new, immersive method of reflection and understanding the story of Mark.

* Recognition for Marquette’s Arts Program: Show your support for the university’s theater arts and its continuing commitment to the arts.

Decoding the Gospel of Mark: Themes and Context

the Gospel of Mark, one of the earliest written Gospels, is known for its:

* Focus on Action: A fast-paced narrative emphasizing Jesus’s deeds.

* Humanity of jesus: Portraying Jesus’s emotions and struggles.

* Messianic Secret: The recurring motif of Jesus’s instructions to keep his identity secret.

* Theological Importance: Exploring themes of faith, discipleship, and sacrifice.

* Impact on Early Christian Beliefs: Understanding how the text influenced the development of Christianity.

Tips for Your visit: making the Most of the Experience

To enhance your experience at the Helfaer Theatre:

* Purchase Tickets in Advance: Secure your seats and avoid disappointment.

* Read the Gospel of Mark: Familiarize yourself with the text or refresh your memory prior to the performance.

* Prepare for Reflection: Consider how the themes relate to your life.

* Arrive Early: Allow time for parking and seating.

* Engage in Post-Show Discussions: Consider staying around after the show to connect and discuss the performance.

The Helfaer Theatre: A Marquette Landmark

The Helfaer Theatre, a cornerstone of Marquette University’s arts program, offers an ideal setting for this production.

* Intimate Atmosphere: Designed for close engagement between performers and the audience.

* State-of-the-Art Facilities: High-quality sound and lighting enhance the performance.

* Convenient Location: easily accessible on the Marquette University campus.

* Support of the Arts: The Helfaer Theatre helps to support and showcase student and alumni theater efforts.

Anticipating the Performance: What to Expect

The production of the Gospel of Mark is bound to offer:

* A captivating performance by a talented individual.

* an enlightening reflection of the text’s key ideas.

* A creative and artistic interpretation.

Prepare for an evening of artistic excellence and intellectual exploration. Be sure to mark your calendars for September 18-19, 2025, to experience this thought-provoking performance.

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