Riveting "Sissies" Play On

Theatre Out’s production of Southern Baptist Sissies is most likely one of the best stage production to hit Orange County this year. Christopher Diehl’s direction is clever and thoughtful. Set against the back drop of the Deep South, four young men grapple with their homosexuality in a community dependent on religion. These so-called “sissies” walk a tightrope – attempting to balance their sexual urges with their understanding of God.

Justin Hamby portrays Mark, the leading narrator of the story. He quick quips and jaded asides quickly establish his frustration with the views of the church – which believes that homosexuality is sinful. He marks weaknesses in his religion, question his beliefs and strongly suggests that not all passages are to be considered in their literal context – After all, according to the Bible “eating shrimp is just as back as sucking c**k.”

Mark yearns for his friend T.J., played by Michael Rachlis, whose Bible studies rule his subconscious. While both succumb to temptation, the friction between their personal life philosophies ultimately breaks them apart. T.J. fights his natural feelings in order to conform to the church and please his family.

Hamby’s performance is truly touching as he comes of age in the short span of a two hour performance. As an actor he is a remarkable story-teller, speaking truthfully from the words of the playwright. His counterpart, Rachlis, is riveting as both the tightly laced T.J. and his second role as a confident stripper dancing his way across the set.

Paul Anderson equally portrays the guilt-stricken and sweet-natured Andrew, bouncing back and forth between prayers of forgiveness and the local gay bars where he searches for fulfillment. He hides his passions from his mother, who constantly worries about his sissified impulses and searches for ways to save his soul.

Benny, played by Tito Ortiz, is the only boy who proudly embraces his effeminate nature – dressing in drag and lip-syncing his way through Dolly Parton songs.

On occasion, the audience is transported to the Rose Room where a foppish Preston “Peanut” Leroy (Stan Jenson) exchanges life lessons and advice on men with Odette Annette Barnett (Lori Kelley). While their stories are often filled to the brim with laughter, it is clear that both characters have a dark past, and while they may be an unlikely duo they need each other’s company desperately.

Southern Baptist Sissies is touching audiences with is powerful truth about the relationship between religion and a growing need to follow ones instincts. As director Dielh pointed out in the post show talk-back, this play does not bash God or religion, but rather questions to society in which we live by investigating characters that represent real people and real struggles.

Theatre Out presents Southern Baptist Sissies August 13 - September 4, 2010 - The Empire Theatre, located at 202 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, CA. Tickets are available online at http://www.theatreout.com/ or by calling the Theatre Out Box Office at (714) 826-8700.