Initially debuting at the 2011 PuSh Festival to transcendent reviews, Pacific Theatre presents an encore performance of the boundary-challenging song cycle, .
A guest production by The Lost Gospel Ensemble, its the Last Supper on show tunes.
Inspired by the Gospels of John, Thomas, Judas and Mary Magdalene, and Luis Bunuels macabre film The Exterminating Angel, The Meals four singers swig wine and break bread while anxiously awaiting a late guest of honour.
Written by Rick Maddocks, directed by Richard Wolfe and featuring musicians from some of Vancouvers top indie bands, this non-church going cast gathered around a shared love of soulful, spiritual music.
Caleb Stull found his way into the troupe on the recommendation of a mutual friend, to fill an opening left by the last Judas; the Parlour Steps singer was already on Maddocks radar and Stull was a fan of Maddocks work in The Beige.
As Judas, Stull spends much of his time getting his brood on tormented by his role in the demise of their revered teacher but his party planning skills havent taken the same turn.
If you were organizing The Last Supper in Vancouver, where would you host it and why?
Beach picnic, maybe a little BBQ. The proximity to water could provide for some interesting parlour trick opportunities with our guest of honour.
What kind of food would be served?
Wine, most definitely, would be flowing freely. If Im in charge of the menu its going to be earthy and fresh, lots of seasonal local vegetables.
Who would you hire as the entertainment?
The Kronos Quartet doing Philip Glass.
What would you ask him if you had the chance?
I suppose I would inquire as to whether he had any immediate plans on coming back and re-iterating his more compassionate teachings to some of his earthly followers, many of which happen to scare the crap out of me.
Of John, Thomas, Judas and Mary who would you befriend if you were an apostle?
I would most definitely hang with Mary. Her struggles made her more rational, more in touch with the love and compassion of the better parts of Js teachings. Plus I think she was more capable of having some serious fun.
The Meal runs April 11 to 14 at the Pacific Theatre, 1440 W. 12 Ave. Tickets range from limited to very limited, so call 604-731-5518 or check PacificTheatre.org for pricing and availability.
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