Returning to the Freed Theater stage in April is “Vianney,” the popular live production that brings us closer to St. John Vianney, patron saint of priests. The one-man drama offers a deeper understanding the saint who, though incompetent in his theology and Latin studies, was ordained a priest anyway because there were so few priests at that time. He went on to draw hundreds of thousands of people to the faith.
The production is filled with all of the elements of professional theater, incorporates state-of-the-art technology, a moving musical score, full theatrical lighting, and a video backdrop offering a full cast of characters, creating a fast-paced and engaging drama.
“I find the character of John Vianney extremely endearing,” says the production’s actor, Leonardo Defilippis. “He was a truly eccentric character, wearing a ragged cassock, for several years living on a diet of nothing but one potato a day, yet sparing no expense for the church or his children. His love and concern for the salvation of every single person he encountered came through in his every word and action. There is an urgency in him that is extraordinarily compelling and convicting.”
See “Vianney” at Christ Cathedral’s Freed Theater April 7-9. Performances are: Friday, April 7 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, April 8 at 7 p.m.; Sunday, April 9 at 12 noon. Admission is $20/person. For tickets: www.ccdramaseries.com.