Musical casts light on church characters

'IT TRIES TO FIND WAYS TO BREAK DOWN BARRIERS'

- CLARE AINSWORTH

A MUSICAL play chronicling the triumphs and tribulations faced by churches as they try to remain connected with their wider communities is being premiered in Plymouth.

Bloomin’ Church!, written by Anne Middleton, which also includes original songs and music, is being shown at Devonport Playhouse this week.

Anne, who holds the newly-established role of Performing Arts Mission Enabler for the Plymouth and Devonport Methodist Circuit, is passionate about the power of theatre and the arts to transform lives. In Bloomin’ Church! she explores the relationships between a minister and his family and a Methodist church which is showing some cracks.

Anne said: “Bloomin’ Church! is about a church community, led by their clumsy minister, trying to find ways to break down some of the barriers both between church and community and between the church members, to create a safe space where all feel welcome.