Pines Baptist Brings Back Easter Musical Production

Sat., April 15, 1995

Ward Sanderson Correspondent

When Pines Baptist Church puts on an Easter musical, it’s no small affair.

The church’s production of “The Choice,” a musical by Robert and Cindy Sterling, has a cast of nearly 70 members.

“There’s a lot of us,” said member Laurel Crnich. “It’s really good for crowd scenes.”

That throng of antiquity-garbed performers has been busy, too. They’ve been practicing lines, modifying sets and making sure costumes are ready since December.

The church, 714 S. Pines, staged the same production last year, but its tradition of holiday performances is nothing new.

“The Choice” is a repeat favorite both for audiences and performers because while it is set during the time of Christ, the story unfolds through the eyes of two ordinary folks - allowing the audience to put themselves in the characters’ sandals.

The musical is the story of a Roman soldier who falls in love with a girl who is a follower of Christ. The story follows the twists and turns in their relationship as they react to seeing Christ’s fate on the cross and the ensuing Easter miracle.

Last year there were four performances of the musical, but this time around there are only half the number of showings. The problem wasn’t attendance, it was just exhaustion.

”(Four shows) just about killed us,” Crnich said, laughing.

Crnich - who at age 36 plays the role of a grandmother - said last year’s performance was seen by about 1,200 people. She guesses this year’s turnout should be about the same.

The more the better, though. Cast members want big numbers to see the fruits of their late-winter/early-spring preparation labors.

That’s especially true of Crnich, who has to apply 40 years worth of stage make-up before show time.

“It’s quite a process,” she said.

“The Choice” is directed by church minister of music Bobby Watkins. Ken Packard and Kevin Fortney alternate nights playing Roman soldier Marcus; Kelleen Little and Tonia Stewart alternate nights as lead character Hanna.

Performances are scheduled for Saturdays and Sundays at 7 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, call 928-7880.

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