Movie spotlight
Hand to God
The new and temporarily working titled medieval farce from Jake Kuhn.
Insights
Plot Summary
In a quiet, Christian town in Texas, a grieving teenager named Jason discovers a demonic sock puppet named Tyrone. This unruly puppet quickly takes on a life of its own, wreaking havoc and revealing the town's hidden desires and dark secrets. As Jason struggles to control Tyrone, he grapples with his own repressed emotions and the complexities of faith, family, and sexuality.
Critical Reception
Hand to God received positive reviews from critics, who praised its dark humor, provocative themes, and energetic performances, particularly Steven Boyer's dual role as Jason and Tyrone. While some found the play's blend of the sacred and profane jarring, most lauded its originality and willingness to explore complex issues with both wit and heart.
What Reviewers Say
A wildly inventive and hilarious dark comedy that pushes boundaries.
Features a standout performance from Steven Boyer as both the awkward teen and his demonic puppet.
Provocative and thought-provoking, exploring themes of grief, faith, and repressed desires with a unique blend of the absurd and the profound.
Google audience: Audiences largely appreciated the play's sharp wit, unique premise, and bold exploration of controversial themes. Many highlighted the humor and the exceptional performances as major strengths.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Play and Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play (Steven Boyer).
Fun Fact
The play's creation was partly inspired by playwright Robert Askins' experiences growing up in a conservative Christian household in Texas and the town's annual "Puppet Ministry" for children.
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