We lurve der Richtsteig!Judge Memorial Catholic High's drama department raised the curtain Thursday night on the rock musical "Rent" despite criticism from some Utah Catholics and a priest offended by the play's gay characters.
The Rev. Erik Richtsteig, pastor of St. James the Just Catholic Church in Ogden, criticized the play on his blog this week, calling it "morally destructive and offensive."
But for the person who would say, "Well, who is he to think he can call it that," I say: (a) a member of the clergy of the Catholic Church and (b) an American citizen entitled to his opinion. If you haven't any respect for his authority as a priest - and he also has the obligation to bring to the attention of his flock what he thinks could lead them to sin - then you shouldn't be upset by his comments.
I do question whether "Rent" is appropriate for the high school crowd, even watered down. For those who think it is a good thing for the children to be "exposed" to this "reality," then why not let them stage "Equus?" See, just because something was "on Broadway" does not make it family fare.
Oh, by the way, this is what Fr. Erik said at his blog. I know - it's such a tirade!
5 comments:
Thank you Digi. (Now I feel really bad about the text message.)
Most excellent post Digi!
I've seen Rent. (The Broadway National Touring version). It is exactly as Father describes it. Besides, it just wasn't that good. It is popular simply because the subject matter is popular in the liberal arts community. (Accent on "liberal"). We are extremely lucky to have a strong priest here.
High schools students should do more family oriented plays, simply because that's their audience. Around here musicals are pretty expensive, even the touring companies that come to the smaller venues are pricey, there is no way you can afford to to take one's children to the theater.
When I was a child I saw Peter Pan from the local high school, and my daughter saw Beauty and the Beast from another one.
My sister-in-law went to a small Catholic high school. They were limited, but the principal said it had to be appropriate.
Guess what?
She wrote her own play.
Looks much cooler on one's college resume too.
Solidarity from Ireland for those protesting against the staging of 'Rent'.Our prayers for those fasting and praying and for those seeking to propagate Catholic values in these difficult times.
www.thoughtactioneire.blogspot.com
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