Jeremy Stanbary's MERCY UNRELENTING to Play Open Window Theatre, 4/25-5/19

When Artistic Director Jeremy Stanbary planned the second season for Open Window Theatre, no one knew that the world would be welcoming a new pope in 2013. When one witnesses the world premiere production of Mercy Unrelenting, however, it would seem that Stanbary's decision was timely, if not prophetic. Mercy Unrelenting by Jeremy Stanbary tells the true story of a family overcome by tragedy and ultimately forgiveness. The message is akin to that of the newly elected Pope Francis whose papal motto is one of divine mercy.

Catholics around the world are familiar with Saint Maria Goretti, the apostle of mercy whose canonization ceremony drew the largest crowd ever assembled for a canonization. During the final agonizing moments of her young life, she completely and unequivocally extended her forgiveness to her murderer, Alessandro Serenelli. Word of her life, death and subsequent miracles spread at the turn of the twentieth century with ferocity as mourners flocked to her gravesite to pay tribute. Perhaps the most significant part of the story of Mercy Unrelenting is the vision of Maria which Serenelli experienced eight years into his prison sentence, which led to his personal redemption. This unbelievable chain of events is delicately portrayed in the intimacy of Open Window Theatre's black box space, in the dramatic world premiere of Mercy Unrelenting.

Director and Playwright Jeremy Stanbary has been compelled by this story for well over a decade now. Sanbary explains, "I love stories of hope that are born of tragedy because tragedy and suffering are inescapable aspects of the human condition. Hope is what seems to be in short supply. The true story of Maria Goretti and Alessandro Serenelli, while representing some of the worst dimensions of humanity, also represents some of the best. It's a story that showcases the unexpected triumph of good over evil. Everyone, I hope, can take consolation in the fact that nobody is beyond the possibility of redemption. It's an inherently dramatic story, which makes for good theater, but it also presents some very intriguing spiritual and moral questions."

Mercy Unrelenting by Jeremy Stanbary features what Stanbary calls, "A stand out cast of Twin Cities actors" and will run approximately two hours with intermission. Open Window Theatre is a full-time, non-profit theater company that produces multi-generational plays with a redemptive value. Due to some intense scenes and mature subject matter, Mercy Unrelenting is strongly recommended for ages 13 and older.

A pre- and post-show wine & dessert reception will take place on opening night, April 26th. The Open Window Theatre is located in the Metropolis Minneapolis building just a few blocks north of the Basilica of St. Mary near the downtown Hennepin Theatre District. Advance discount tickets may be purchased through Brown Paper Tickets by calling 800-838-3006 or visiting: http://mercy.brownpapertickets.com.

The production runs April 25th (preview) - May 19th. Press opening is set for April 26, 2013. Show times: 7:45pm every Thursday - Saturday; Matinees at 2:00pm on Sundays and on Saturday, May 18. All performances run at Open Window Theatre, 1313 Chestnut Ave. #102, Minneapolis, MN, in the Metropolis Minneapolis Building. Free parking is available in the lots off of Linden Ave. W and 15th Street N.

Tickets are $12 - $26 with discounts for advance tickets, students, seniors, and children. Available at www.openwindowtheatre.org or by calling Brown Paper Tickets: 1-800-838-3006.