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StageQ Inc will revive “Corpus Christi,” a provocative and widely discussed play that reimagines the story of Jesus through a queer lens, when the production opens March 20 on the Evjue Stage at the Bartell Theatre.
Written by playwright Terrence McNally, “Corpus Christi” retells the biblical story of Jesus through the Gospel of John but places it in modern-day Corpus Christi, Texas. In this interpretation, the central figure (Joshua) is portrayed as a gay man navigating faith, identity, and persecution.
The StageQ production is directed by Shawn D. Padley with Jasmine Ridler serving as Assistant Director.
The play follows Joshua as he grows up in the 1950s, grappling with his identity and sense of purpose. Along the way, he gathers a group of 12 followers and begins preaching a message centered on love, dignity, and the divinity of humanity. As Joshua’s influence grows, so too does the backlash from those in power, ultimately leading to his execution.
StageQ’s new staging also places the story within a contemporary context, drawing parallels between the persecution depicted in scripture and the modern-day oppression faced by transgender people.
First produced in 1998, “Corpus Christi” has been both praised and criticized for its bold reinterpretation of Christian narratives. Supporters have lauded the work for its exploration of faith, sexuality, and compassion, while critics have objected to its unconventional portrayal of biblical figures.
The production marks the return of the play to StageQ’s repertoire as the Madison-based LGBTQ+ theater company revisits a work from its archives.
Corpus Christi runs March 20-April 4 at the Bartell Theatre in Madison. Tickets are available at bartelltheatre.org/2025/corpus-christi/ or by calling 608-661-9696.
Picture it: Madison, Wisconsin, 2003. “Sex and the City” was finishing strong with its sixth and final season, and statewide, grassroots campaigns were beginning to work toward voting down a referendum that would prohibit same-sex couples from having the same marital rights as legally married couples…
And amid all that pop culture and political frenzy, for its focal play of the 2003–2004 season, StageQ—headed by Tom McClurg—was going to challenge the times with a show that had drawn both critical fire and ire, mainly from the religious community. A show that dared to retell the passion play of Jesus Christ and his beloved disciples as homosexuals: as lovers, as friends, and one Judas, retold against a backdrop of small-town Texas, in a place called “Corpus Christi.”
I was 27 when I auditioned for that play in 2003, as did many other local talents. At the time, “Corpus Christi” was an artistic statement; it had social relevance, and it still does. It was also about faith for me—as a Christian—and it helped me understand that I had just as much a place in God’s love.
So, it was answered prayer when director Pete Rydberg cast me as “Philip.” I was very excited to be part of what Pete led as a director: a social experience within a play, not a social (or theatrical) experiment—we saved that for the audience whose perceptions we challenged.
I will never forget you, Pete, and the diverse artists you brought together for several months: Nathan Caracter as our “Joshua,” and Ben, Andy, Douglas, George, Jackson, Joshua P., Joshua T., Maury, Michael, Paul, and Will… and Steppe, and Dale (and if I am missing anyone, forgive me…).
I think we, as a cast and crew, had more fun than we should have—but we had to. We had to offset the gravity of the story we were telling, despite our commitment to dig deep into our roles. I mean, most of us know how the “greatest story ever told” ends, and it doesn’t quite end like a Disney feature… though I am sure that version is coming.
The fun also offset the anticipation of the protests. There was genuine concern about our safety at times, even in liberal Madison. We were still mourning five years after Matthew Shepard’s horrific death and “The Laramie Project.” StageQ, as represented under Tom and producer Steve Noll, made a commitment to Pete and the cast and crew, and we were given security on performance nights. In that commitment was community. And just as the protesters promised to be peaceful—and they were—our community promised to give a great show, and we did. We were seen, and our voices were heard… and twenty-two years later, they still are.
I wish the cast of “Corpus Christi” ’26 a beautiful time and a beautiful run…
Sincerely,
Erik Andrus, “Philip,” “Corpus Christi” ’04