Pacific Theatre Presents AN ALMOST HOLY PICTURE

How do we find hope in the face of loss? Samuel Gentle, a minister-turned-groundskeeper, has heard God's voice three times in his life, but he has yet to find understanding or peace. He has also experience shattering loss. An Almost Holy Picture follows Gentle as he examines his own history in an intimate portrait of faith, doubt, and the moments that shake our lives.

Ron Reed, Artistic Director at Pacific Theatre, directed the play at Rosebud Theatre in the spring of 2017 and is excited to bring Gentle's story to a Vancouver stage. "The play is simple, but Samuel Gentle's heart is nuanced," says Reed. "It was a pleasure to work with David (Snider, who spends the play entirely alone on stage) for hours at a time in the theatre to create a truly natural and genuine performance."

Gentle's world will be brought to life by lighting and set designer Anna Schroeder. A rustic garden shed functions as storage, shelter, and place of worship all in one, stocked with hand-jarred relishes and a rogue wheelbarrow. Outside, a garden path leads to a small plot of dirt and a bevy of greenery. As Samuel's story unfolds, so too does his exploration of the space around him.

An Almost Holy Picture speaks to hope in the face of tremendous sorrow, and to the dark earth that swallows up joy. "My aim as a director is to avoid acting wherever possible," says Reed, "and to instead tell stories that speak to the truth."

Directed by Ron Reed. Featuring David Snider. Lighting and Set Design by Anna Schroeder. Sound Design by Luke Ertman. Stage Management by Charissa Hurt.

Details: AN ALMOST HOLY PICTURE by Heather McDonald When: Feb 21 - Mar 3, Wed-Sat at 8pm with 2pm matinees Saturdays. Where: Pacific Theatre, 1440 W 12th Ave (at Hemlock), Vancouver, BC Tickets: $20-36.50 (not incl. HST). To book visit pacifictheatre.org or call 604.731.5518

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