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'''''A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant''''' is a ] ] about ] and ], written by ] from a concept by ], the show's original director. The play runs for an hour in duration, and consists of one act.<ref>{{cite news | last = Martinez | first = Julio | coauthors = | title = A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant | work = ] | pages = | language = | publisher = ] | date = November 9, 2004 | url = http://www.variety.com/review/VE1117925499.html?categoryid=33&cs=1 | accessdate = 2007-10-27}}</ref><ref name="variety2006" /> The show was originally presented by Les Freres Corbusier, an experimental theatrical troupe. Jarrow based the script for the play on L. Ron Hubbard's writings and ] literature. Early on in the production of the play, the president of the Church of Scientology in New York showed up unannounced to a rehearsal. He also sent a letter to the play's producer pointing out the ], which led Timbers and Jarrow's attorneys to advise them to insert the word "Unauthorized" into the title of the play. '''''A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant''''' is a ] ] about ] and ], written by ] from a concept by ], the show's original director. The play runs for an hour in duration, and consists of one act.<ref>{{cite news | last = Martinez | first = Julio | coauthors = | title = A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant | work = ] | pages = | language = | publisher = ] | date = November 9, 2004 | url = http://www.variety.com/review/VE1117925499.html?categoryid=33&cs=1 | accessdate = 2007-10-27}}</ref><ref name="variety2006" /> The show was originally presented by Les Freres Corbusier, an experimental theatrical troupe. Jarrow based the script for the play on L. Ron Hubbard's writings and ] literature. Early on in the production of the play, the president of the Church of Scientology in New York showed up unannounced to a rehearsal. He also sent a letter to the play's producer pointing out the ], which led Timbers and Jarrow's attorneys to advise them to insert the word "Unauthorized" into the title of the play.


Topics presented throughout the play include ], the ], ]s and the story of ]. Productions of the play typically feature eight to twelve year-old actors, who portray children of ]s enacting a ]. The play debuted in November 2003 in ], where it had sold-out ] and ] productions. Later performances have included ], New York, ], ] and ]. During the Los Angeles production, representatives of the Church of Scientology again visited the production staff in the midst of rehearsals. They handed out documentation of prior successful litigation against ], and the director characterized this as "intimidating." Parents of some of the Los Angeles cast members also received phone calls from Scientologists in the entertainment industry, asking them not to have their children perform in the play. Though the musical pokes fun at Hubbard's science fiction writing and personal beliefs, the production has been called a "deadpan presentation" of his life story.<ref name="muther" /> The play follows the life of L. Ron Hubbard as he develops ] and then Scientology. Topics presented throughout the play include Dianetics, the ], ]s and the story of ]. Productions of the play typically feature eight to twelve year-old actors, who portray children of ]s enacting a ]. The play debuted in November 2003 in ], where it had sold-out ] and ] productions. Later performances have included ], New York, ], ] and ]. During the Los Angeles production, representatives of the Church of Scientology again visited the production staff in the midst of rehearsals. They handed out documentation of prior successful litigation against ], and the director characterized this as "intimidating." Parents of some of the Los Angeles cast members also received phone calls from Scientologists in the entertainment industry, asking them not to have their children perform in the play.


The productions of ''A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant'' in 2003, 2004 and 2006 were well received. The play received an ] for the 2003 New York production, and director Alex Timbers received a "Garland Award" for the 2004 Los Angeles production. The play also received positive reviews in the press. '']'' characterized it as a "]," and '']'' put the play on a par with '']''. '']'' and '']'' gave the 2004 production favorable reviews, and '']'' and '']'' had kind words for the updated 2006 edition. A 2004 ] was released by ], and the ] release received four out of five stars from ], and positive mention in '']''. The productions of ''A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant'' in 2003, 2004 and 2006 were well received. The play received an ] for the 2003 New York production, and director Alex Timbers received a "Garland Award" for the 2004 Los Angeles production. The play also received positive reviews in the press. '']'' characterized it as a "]," and '']'' put the play on a par with '']''. '']'' and '']'' gave the 2004 production favorable reviews, and '']'' and '']'' had kind words for the updated 2006 edition. A 2004 ] was released by ], and the ] release received four out of five stars from ], and positive mention in '']''.
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| work = ] | pages = | language = | publisher = | work = ] | pages = | language = | publisher =
| date = November 1, 2004 | url =http://www.robkendt.com/Features&News/Hell+House+&+Scientology.htm | date = November 1, 2004 | url =http://www.robkendt.com/Features&News/Hell+House+&+Scientology.htm
| accessdate = 2001-10-31}}</ref> Jarrow was initially motivated to write the script by what he saw as a shift in religious teachings - from an old model involving ] and retribution, to a new system of thought promising money or peace.<ref name="gregory" /> During production, the producers were cognizant of the potential for ignorance about some of the content being depicted in the play, and the creative team worked with cast members to educate them about the background behind what they were performing. On preparing cast members for the play, Jarrow stated: "Kids shouldn't just be saying things that they don't understand. That's what we're criticizing...people who just parrot behavior and language. We wanted to have an honest conversation with them."<ref name="muther" /> Though the child actors in the play are most often accomplished in their own right, their performances include a "realistic lack of polish", as they are actually playing non-professional children of Scientologists, performing in a holiday ].<ref name="broadwayworld" /> The ages of the cast members typically range from 8 to 12.<ref name="nytimes2003">{{cite news | last = Brantley | first = Ben | coauthors = | title = THEATER REVIEW; Crayon-Colored Excursion Into Positive Thinking | work = ] | pages = | language = | publisher = | date = December 22, 2003 | url = http://theater2.nytimes.com/mem/theater/treview.html?res=9D06E2DB133FF931A15751C1A9659C8B63 | accessdate = 2001-10-31}}</ref> Jarrow was initially motivated to write the script by what he saw as a shift in religious teachings - from an old model involving ] and retribution, to a new system of thought promising money or peace.<ref name="gregory" /> During production, the producers were cognizant of the potential for ignorance about some of the content being depicted in the play, and the creative team worked with cast members to educate them about the background behind what they were performing. On preparing cast members for the play, Jarrow stated: "Kids shouldn't just be saying things that they don't understand. That's what we're criticizing...people who just parrot behavior and language. We wanted to have an honest conversation with them."<ref name="muther" /> Though the child actors in the play are most often accomplished in their own right, their performances include a "realistic lack of polish", as they are actually playing non-professional children of Scientologists, performing in a holiday ].<ref name="broadwayworld" /> The ages of the cast members typically range from 8 to 12, and the ensemble includes ten actors.<ref name="grode" /><ref name="nytimes2003">{{cite news | last = Brantley | first = Ben | coauthors = | title = THEATER REVIEW; Crayon-Colored Excursion Into Positive Thinking | work = ] | pages = | language = | publisher = | date = December 22, 2003 | url = http://theater2.nytimes.com/mem/theater/treview.html?res=9D06E2DB133FF931A15751C1A9659C8B63
| accessdate = }}</ref> | accessdate = }}</ref>


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| publisher = | date = December 21, 2003 | url = http://lesfreres.org/pageant/nytimesfeature.htm | accessdate = 2007-10-26 }}</ref> | publisher = | date = December 21, 2003 | url = http://lesfreres.org/pageant/nytimesfeature.htm | accessdate = 2007-10-26 }}</ref>


==Plot == == Plot summary ==
Though the musical pokes fun at Hubbard's science fiction writing and personal beliefs, the production has been called a "deadpan presentation" of his life story.<ref name="muther" /> The play follows the life of L. Ron Hubbard as he develops ] and then Scientology. Hubbard is first encountered in a ] setting, and the play then follows him as he begins to question the nature of his existence.<ref name="mikulan">{{cite news | last = Mikulan | first = Steven | coauthors = | title = I Believe in Miracles: Looking for God in all the wrong places | work = ] | pages = Theater, Pages 1-2 | language = | publisher = LA Weekly, LP | date = October 28, 2004 | url = http://www.laweekly.com/stage/theater/i-believe-in-miracles/1253/ | accessdate = 2007-10-25}}</ref> Hubbard's service in ] is recounted, where he is seen adrift on a boat in the ].<ref name="mikulan" /> As the cast is comprised of children, the play includes child-friendly explanations of technical ], including the ], which is described in a ],<ref name="variety2006" /> and the ].<ref name="nytimes2003" /> The reactive and analytical portions of the mind are depicted by two children who share a ] costume.<ref name="murray">{{cite news | last = Murray | first = Matthew | coauthors = | title = A Very Merry Unauthorized Children’s Scientology Pageant | work = Talkin' Broadway | pages = Section, Off Broadway: Not Your Grandma's Theatre | language = | publisher = www.TalkinBroadway.Org, Inc. | date = December 10, 2006 | url = http://www.talkinbroadway.com/ob/12_10_06.html | accessdate = 2007-10-25}}</ref> As Hubbard begins to teach his followers about the reactive mind, they each proclaim to him: "You’re right!," to which the Hubbard character answers: "Of course I’m right!"<ref name="mikulan" /> The play opens with the song "Hey! It's a Happy Day!," where the cast members rejoice in telling the story of L. Ron Hubbard on a cold winter night.<ref name="soundtrackalbum" /> The song ends with a narration: "Today we relate the life of L. Ron Hubbard: Teacher, author, explorer, atomic physicist, nautical engineer, choreographer, horticulturist, and father of Scientology!"<ref name="soundtrackalbum" /> Hubbard is first encountered in a ] setting, and he begins to question the nature of his existence.<ref name="mikulan">{{cite news | last = Mikulan | first = Steven | coauthors = | title = I Believe in Miracles: Looking for God in all the wrong places | work = ] | pages = Theater, Pages 1-2 | language = | publisher = LA Weekly, LP | date = October 28, 2004 | url = http://www.laweekly.com/stage/theater/i-believe-in-miracles/1253/ | accessdate = 2007-10-25}}</ref> Hubbard's service in ] is recounted, where he is seen adrift on a boat in the ] and begins to think about starting a religion.<ref name="mikulan" /> Hubbard tells his followers about what he has learned through his travels in "Science of the Mind," where he sings about "the key to being free, the way to be happy."<ref name="soundtrackalbum" /> He tells his followers that during the War, "I saw how emotion can make you blind," and begins to teach his followers about the ].<ref name="soundtrackalbum" /> The reactive and analytical portions of the mind are depicted by two children who share a ] ] costume.<ref name="variety2006" /><ref name="murray">{{cite news | last = Murray | first = Matthew | coauthors = | title = A Very Merry Unauthorized Children’s Scientology Pageant | work = Talkin' Broadway | pages = Section, Off Broadway: Not Your Grandma's Theatre | language = | publisher = www.TalkinBroadway.Org, Inc. | date = December 10, 2006 | url = http://www.talkinbroadway.com/ob/12_10_06.html | accessdate = 2007-10-25}}</ref> Hubbard thanks the analytical mind for helping him find the answers he was searching for, and proclaims "Thinking rationally is the way to be happy and the key to learning more."<ref name="soundtrackalbum" /> He announces to his followers "You'll operate with your analytical mind only .. There won't be any emotions to stand in the way of your success."<ref name="grode" /> As Hubbard tells his followers about his new ideas, they each proclaim to him: "You’re right!" Hubbard answers: "Of course I’m right!"<ref name="mikulan" /> Some technical ] is then explained in a child-friendly manner, including the ], which is described in a ].<ref name="variety2006" /><ref name="nytimes2003" />


The aspects of ] are also discussed, and one of the child actors portrays an evil ] prince ]. While the Xenu story is related, the story's narrator is outfitted in a cardboard robot suit.<ref name="mikulan" /> The chorus of the play portray ]s.<ref name="variety2006" /> ] including actors ], and ] are also depicted in the play.<ref name="playbill2004" /> The 2006 edition of the play was updated from 2003, and included ] renditions by character ] of his wife ] and daughter Suri.<ref name="murray" /><ref name="variety2006">{{cite news | last = Rooney | first = David | coauthors = | title = Off Broadway - A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant | work = ] | pages = | language = | publisher = The story of evil ] prince ] is related as the story's narrator is outfitted in a cardboard robot suit.<ref name="mikulan" /> The chorus portray ]s.<ref name="variety2006" /> The relationships of ] with Scientology, including actors ], ] and ], are explored.<ref name="variety2006" /><ref name="playbill2004" /> "John Travolta reveals how Scientology fueled his cool; Kirstie Alley tells how it helped her conquer drug addiction, 'enabling me to star in the fine television series 'Fat Actress' and to promote the quality products of weight loss expert Jenny Craig'; and Tom Cruise introduces sock-puppet incarnations of his new wife and daughter."<ref name="variety2006">{{cite news | last = Rooney | first = David | coauthors = | title = Off Broadway - A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant | work = ] | pages = | language = | publisher = ] | date = ], ] | url = http://www.variety.com/review/VE1117932286.html?categoryid=33&cs=1 | accessdate = 2007-10-26}}</ref> The trial of Hubbard by the ] is then recounted, however he is able to defeat the tax charges by ] his accuser.<ref name="mikulan" /><ref name="curtainup2006" /> Celebrities Cruise, Alley and Travolta give testimony during Hubbard's trial.<ref name="curtainup2006" /> Hubbard is later questioned in the play by skeptics, who bring up concerns about the ]'s ] and methods of recruiting and retaining members.<ref name="nytimes2003" /> One young boy, left alone on the stage, sings about profound ].<ref name="gregory">{{cite news | last = Gregory | first = Jean-Michele | coauthors = | title = A Punk Theologian on Stage and in Song, Profile: Kyle Jarrow| work = ] | pages = | language = | publisher = One SL, LLC | date = March 31, 2005 | url = http://www.nysun.com/article/11488 | accessdate = 2007-10-24}} </ref> The entire company finally comes together to sing the chilling finale, which includes the refrain: "Just don't ask questions / And everything is clear."<ref name="grode" />
| date = December 10, 2006 | url = http://www.variety.com/review/VE1117932286.html?categoryid=33&cs=1 | accessdate = 2007-10-26}}</ref> The character of Tom Cruise was played by an eight-year-old boy, who was taught to mimic Cruise's ].<ref name="grode" /> The centerpiece of the production is the trial of Hubbard by the ].<ref name="curtainup2006" /> Hubbard is later questioned in the play by skeptics, who bring up concerns about the ]'s ] and methods of recruiting and retaining members.<ref name="nytimes2003" /> In the final moments of the play, one young boy is left alone on the stage, and sings a song about profound alienation.<ref name="gregory">{{cite news | last = Gregory | first = Jean-Michele | coauthors = | title = A Punk Theologian on Stage and in Song, Profile: Kyle Jarrow
| work = ] | pages = | language = | publisher = One SL, LLC | date = March 31, 2005 | url = http://www.nysun.com/article/11488 | accessdate = 2007-10-24}} </ref> The entire company comes together in the end to sing a song that has been described as "chilling" - which includes the refrain: "Just don't ask questions / And everything is clear."<ref name="grode" />


== Productions == == Productions ==
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}} }}


A ] of the play was released by ]'s ], on ], ].<ref name="playbill2004" /> In developing the music for the play, Kyle Jarrow incorporated themes from '']'', a 1986 ] album which featured performances from ], ], ], ], and ], because the lyrics to the album were written by ].<ref name="muther" /> Jarrow also incorporated musical themes from ], explaining: "..the liturgical music of Scientology is 1980s pop, which seems strangely appropriate because of the science fiction books. So that's what we did . It's a pastiche of synth-pop and pageant choir music."<ref name="muther" /> A ] of the play was released by ]'s ], on ], ].<ref name="playbill2004" /> In developing the music for the play, Kyle Jarrow incorporated themes from '']'', a 1986 ] album which featured performances from ], ], ], ], and ], because the lyrics to the album were written by ].<ref name="muther" /> Jarrow also incorporated musical themes from ], explaining: "..the liturgical music of Scientology is 1980s pop, which seems strangely appropriate because of the science fiction books. So that's what we did . It's a pastiche of synth-pop and pageant choir music."<ref name="muther" /> The song, "Hey! It's a Happy Day!" contains an excerpted quote from Hubbard's ''Scientology: A New Slant On Life''.<ref name="soundtrackalbum">{{cite book | last =Jarrow | first =Kyle | authorlink = | coauthors = | title =A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant: Original Soundtrack Album | publisher =Les Freres Corbusier, Tank Records | date =], ] | location = | pages =Page 3, (Soundtrack Album booklet) | url = | doi = | id = | isbn = }}</ref>


The first track on the album is entitled "Disclaimer", and is a general announcement to the audience. The '']'' surmised that this disclaimer served to "keep the creators of this acidic little send-up from getting hauled into court":<ref name="ladailynews">{{cite news | last = Henerson | first = Even | coauthors = | title = Scientology skewered on stage in childish musical | work = ] | pages = | language = | publisher = Toronto Star Newspapers, Ltd. | date = October 30, 2004 | url = | accessdate = 2007-10-26}}</ref> The first track on the album is entitled "Disclaimer", and is a general announcement to the audience. The '']'' surmised that this disclaimer served to "keep the creators of this acidic little send-up from getting hauled into court":<ref name="ladailynews">{{cite news | last = Henerson | first = Even | coauthors = | title = Scientology skewered on stage in childish musical | work = ] | pages = | language = | publisher = Toronto Star Newspapers, Ltd. | date = October 30, 2004 | url = | accessdate = 2007-10-26}}</ref>

Revision as of 10:53, 28 November 2007

Musical by Kyle Jarrow
A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant
File:L Ron and Annie.jpgPublicity still, December 2004 production
MusicKyle Jarrow
LyricsKyle Jarrow
BookKyle Jarrow
BasisA concept by Alex Timbers
Productions2003 Off-off-Broadway
2003 Off-Broadway
2004 Powerhouse Theatre, Los Angeles
2006 New York Theatre Workshop, Boston Center for the Arts, Dad's Garage Theatre Company
2007 Brat Productions, Philadelphia, Dad's Garage Theatre Company
Awards2004 Obie Award

A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant is a satirical musical about Scientology and L. Ron Hubbard, written by Kyle Jarrow from a concept by Alex Timbers, the show's original director. The play runs for an hour in duration, and consists of one act. The show was originally presented by Les Freres Corbusier, an experimental theatrical troupe. Jarrow based the script for the play on L. Ron Hubbard's writings and Church of Scientology literature. Early on in the production of the play, the president of the Church of Scientology in New York showed up unannounced to a rehearsal. He also sent a letter to the play's producer pointing out the Church's history of litigation, which led Timbers and Jarrow's attorneys to advise them to insert the word "Unauthorized" into the title of the play.

Though the musical pokes fun at Hubbard's science fiction writing and personal beliefs, the production has been called a "deadpan presentation" of his life story. The play follows the life of L. Ron Hubbard as he develops Dianetics and then Scientology. Topics presented throughout the play include Dianetics, the E-meter, Thetans and the story of Xenu. Productions of the play typically feature eight to twelve year-old actors, who portray children of Scientologists enacting a pageant. The play debuted in November 2003 in New York City, where it had sold-out Off-Off-Broadway and Off-Broadway productions. Later performances have included Los Angeles, New York, Boston, Atlanta and Philadelphia. During the Los Angeles production, representatives of the Church of Scientology again visited the production staff in the midst of rehearsals. They handed out documentation of prior successful litigation against critics of Scientology, and the director characterized this as "intimidating." Parents of some of the Los Angeles cast members also received phone calls from Scientologists in the entertainment industry, asking them not to have their children perform in the play.

The productions of A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant in 2003, 2004 and 2006 were well received. The play received an Obie Award for the 2003 New York production, and director Alex Timbers received a "Garland Award" for the 2004 Los Angeles production. The play also received positive reviews in the press. The New York Times characterized it as a "cult-hit," and The Village Voice put the play on a par with The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui. The Los Angeles Times and The Guardian gave the 2004 production favorable reviews, and Variety and The Boston Globe had kind words for the updated 2006 edition. A 2004 cast recording was released by Sh-K-Boom Records, and the CD release received four out of five stars from All Music Guide, and positive mention in The Los Angeles Daily News.

Background

Alex Timbers initially came up with the concept and directed the play, while Kyle Jarrow wrote the accompanying book, music and lyrics. Jarrow's script was "almost entirely based on Hubbard's own writings and the church's literature." Timbers explained to Variety why they chose to stick to Church of Scientology primary source material for background on the script, stating: "We thought that the best way to satirize the Church of Scientology was to let the Church speak for itself." Jarrow was initially motivated to write the script by what he saw as a shift in religious teachings - from an old model involving hell and retribution, to a new system of thought promising money or peace. During production, the producers were cognizant of the potential for ignorance about some of the content being depicted in the play, and the creative team worked with cast members to educate them about the background behind what they were performing. On preparing cast members for the play, Jarrow stated: "Kids shouldn't just be saying things that they don't understand. That's what we're criticizing...people who just parrot behavior and language. We wanted to have an honest conversation with them." Though the child actors in the play are most often accomplished in their own right, their performances include a "realistic lack of polish", as they are actually playing non-professional children of Scientologists, performing in a holiday pageant. The ages of the cast members typically range from 8 to 12, and the ensemble includes ten actors.

Early in the production of the play, John Carmichael, president of the Church of Scientology in New York, found out that a theatrical production involving Scientology was in the works. After showing up unannounced to a rehearsal, Carmichael sent a letter to the play's New York producer, Aaron Lemon-Strauss, citing his concerns at the possibility of being ridiculed. In the letter, Carmichael also pointed out the church's many past lawsuits. Alex Timbers was quoted as saying: "We've been told that the letter is a precursor to a lawsuit." Carmichael visited the artistic staff a total of three times to voice his concerns before the play's debut. After this occurrence, Jarrow and Timbers' attorneys advised them to insert the word "Unauthorized" into the title of the play. This move was done in order to avoid potential litigation from the Church of Scientology. In an interview with The New York Times, Carmichael later stated: "These folks have a right to write whatever play they want.. but they've sunk to cliches."

Plot summary

The play opens with the song "Hey! It's a Happy Day!," where the cast members rejoice in telling the story of L. Ron Hubbard on a cold winter night. The song ends with a narration: "Today we relate the life of L. Ron Hubbard: Teacher, author, explorer, atomic physicist, nautical engineer, choreographer, horticulturist, and father of Scientology!" Hubbard is first encountered in a manger setting, and he begins to question the nature of his existence. Hubbard's service in World War II is recounted, where he is seen adrift on a boat in the Pacific ocean and begins to think about starting a religion. Hubbard tells his followers about what he has learned through his travels in "Science of the Mind," where he sings about "the key to being free, the way to be happy." He tells his followers that during the War, "I saw how emotion can make you blind," and begins to teach his followers about the reactive mind. The reactive and analytical portions of the mind are depicted by two children who share a conjoined right brain costume. Hubbard thanks the analytical mind for helping him find the answers he was searching for, and proclaims "Thinking rationally is the way to be happy and the key to learning more." He announces to his followers "You'll operate with your analytical mind only .. There won't be any emotions to stand in the way of your success." As Hubbard tells his followers about his new ideas, they each proclaim to him: "You’re right!" Hubbard answers: "Of course I’m right!" Some technical Scientology jargon is then explained in a child-friendly manner, including the E-meter, which is described in a puppet show.

The story of evil alien prince Xenu is related as the story's narrator is outfitted in a cardboard robot suit. The chorus portray Thetans. The relationships of certain celebrities with Scientology, including actors Tom Cruise, Kirstie Alley and John Travolta, are explored. "John Travolta reveals how Scientology fueled his cool; Kirstie Alley tells how it helped her conquer drug addiction, 'enabling me to star in the fine television series 'Fat Actress' and to promote the quality products of weight loss expert Jenny Craig'; and Tom Cruise introduces sock-puppet incarnations of his new wife and daughter." The trial of Hubbard by the Internal Revenue Service is then recounted, however he is able to defeat the tax charges by brainwashing his accuser. Celebrities Cruise, Alley and Travolta give testimony during Hubbard's trial. Hubbard is later questioned in the play by skeptics, who bring up concerns about the Church of Scientology's finances and methods of recruiting and retaining members. One young boy, left alone on the stage, sings about profound alienation. The entire company finally comes together to sing the chilling finale, which includes the refrain: "Just don't ask questions / And everything is clear."

Productions

2003 - 2004
File:100 0557.jpg
Performance number in A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant, December 2004 production

A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant first debuted in November 2003, and had sold-out Off-Off-Broadway and Off-Broadway runs that winter. The play was initially shown at The Tank theatre on 42nd Street, and later moved to The John Houseman Theatre. The play opened in Los Angeles at the Powerhouse Theatre, in October 2004. The run was initially scheduled for October 15 through November 21, 2004, but was extended through December 21, 2004. Alex Timbers said he was excited to take the production to Los Angeles, commenting: "Since the whole goal of the show is to imagine how the Scientologists might stage a nativity pageant, there’s no better place to try than in their Jerusalem."

When the production company first arrived in Los Angeles, the cast and crew were "intimidated" by Scientologists. Scientology officials visited the theatre in the midst of rehearsals and handed out "documentation of court cases where the Church of Scientology had successfully prosecuted those seeking to disparage the Church's methods." Director/creator Alex Timbers characterized these events as "terrifically wonderful and intimidating." Editors from the Los Angeles Times received phone calls from Scientologists urging them not to write about the play. In addition, the parents of one of the children from the cast received phone calls from members of the entertainment industry who were Scientologists. The parents of these cast members were told that if their children performed in the play, "it might be bad for their future career." The parents politely informed these callers that they had read the script and understood the concerns voiced by the Scientologists, but did not share them." When asked by Variety magazine for the Church's official take on the play, a Los Angeles Church of Scientology spokeswoman was quoted as saying: "This is not litigation material. This is nothing."

2006 - present

In 2006, the play was performed at New York Theatre Workshop's 4th Street Theatre in New York City. The show ran from November 29, to January 7, 2006, with Gabriel Kahane as musical director. That same year, the show was also presented at the Center for the Arts in Boston, and at Dad's Garage Theatre in Atlanta. When contacted by The Boston Globe for a statement on the 2006 Boston production of the play, Boston Church of Scientology president Gerard Renna stated that the musical: "is not something we're addressing," and that they were instead focused on antidrug education. A 2007 edition of the play will be shown in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with performances December 13, through December 30, 2007, and will also be shown again at Dad's Garage Theatre, from November 30 to December 23 2007.

Reception

Awards

A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant received a 2004 Obie Award for its 2003 production in New York City. Kyle Jarrow and Alex Timbers were given "Special Citations" from The Village Voice for developing the piece. Timbers and Jarrow were honored with the award at the May 17, 2004 Obie Award presentation, at New York's Webster Hall. Alex Timbers also received a "Garland Award" for best director, for the 2004 Los Angeles production of the play.

Reviews

A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant received positive reviews from the press. A review in the The New York Times described the play as having a "crude, faux-naïf sensibility", and stated that it "provides a cult-hit blueprint for a young generation that prefers its irony delivered with not a wink but a blank stare." A 2003 review in New York City's The Village Voice compared the play to The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui, stating: "Just as Ui doesn't explain the complex phenomenon of the Third Reich, Scientology Pageant doesn't probe the psychology of cults; instead, both demystify subjects whose appeal stems in no small part from the mystique their acolytes have attributed to them." Though most of the media reception of the play was positive, New York Church President John Carmichael did not have kind words for the production. Carmichael asserted that L. Ron Hubbard was portrayed in the play as "an authoritarian demagogue whose methods create emotionless followers." Other critics complained that the young members of the cast were portraying characters and depicting content that they could not understand.

The Los Angeles Times reviewed the play in 2004, and stated that: "The show found a New York audience willing to move from the tongue-in-cheek children's pageant concept to something that became startlingly adult." In a 2004 review in The Guardian, the article cited notable quotes from other reviews, including The New York Times, The Village Voice, and The New York Observer. The review stated that audiences "have a chance to witness a wide-eyed, straight-faced, scrappy and touching telling of the story of L Ron set to a cheesy electro-pop score. See the great man, clad in a white Plyphonic Spree-style gown, wander from inquisitive soul to wounded war veteran to writer of pulp science fiction to leader of world religion. Sort of."

Of the updated 2006 version, Variety stated that "..the breezy one-hour show is equal parts adorable and creepy, hilarious and unsettling, making it way more compelling than your average holiday entertainment." The Boston Globe also reviewed the 2006 edition of the play, and its review spent more time giving background on some of the cast and crew, particularly writer Kyle Jarrow, stating that "..Jarrow has created a musical about L. Ron Hubbard that is, in its own sardonic way, much more funny and touching than any of Cruise's diatribes against Ritalin." The New York Sun described the production as an: "ingenious musical account of L. Ron Hubbard's life and times," and compared the discomfort produced by watching the piece to the 2006 documentary Jesus Camp.

Cast recording

Untitled

A cast recording of the play was released by Kurt Deutsch's Sh-K-Boom Records, on November 2, 2004. In developing the music for the play, Kyle Jarrow incorporated themes from The Road to Freedom, a 1986 pop album which featured performances from John Travolta, Leif Garrett, Frank Stallone, Chick Correa, and Karen Black, because the lyrics to the album were written by L. Ron Hubbard. Jarrow also incorporated musical themes from 1980s pop, explaining: "..the liturgical music of Scientology is 1980s pop, which seems strangely appropriate because of the science fiction books. So that's what we did . It's a pastiche of synth-pop and pageant choir music." The song, "Hey! It's a Happy Day!" contains an excerpted quote from Hubbard's Scientology: A New Slant On Life.

The first track on the album is entitled "Disclaimer", and is a general announcement to the audience. The Los Angeles Daily News surmised that this disclaimer served to "keep the creators of this acidic little send-up from getting hauled into court":

Ladies and gentlemen: Before we go any further, I would just like to inform you, that Scientology, Scientologist, Dianetics, and the name L. Ron Hubbard, are registered trademarks - owned exclusively by the Church of Scientology. Thank you. Now let's get on with the show!

— "Disclaimer", CD Soundtrack, Sh-K-Boom Records, 2004

The CD release received four out of five stars from All Music Guide, where it was described as "Funny, weird and wonderful", and "the offbeat theater offering of the year." Specific tracks highlighted by All Music Guide included "L. Ron Hubbard," in which the chorus centers on the question: "What does the "L." stand for?," and "The Way It Began," which begins with the preface statement: "The following is completely secret and absolutely serious. It is the story of the universe as described in the most sacred literature of the Church of Scientology." In the song "Mister Auditor," the children actually sing some of the typical questions asked in Scientology auditing, and in the song "Something Special," allegations that the Church of Scientology: "preys on the weak and confused" are discussed, but the narrator states that none of these allegations are true.

2004 Cast recording
  1. "Disclaimer" - 00:18
  2. "Hey! It's a Happy Day!" - 04:37
  3. "L. Ron Hubbard" - 03:44
  4. "The Way That It Began" - 03:10
  5. "Searching" - 02:33
  6. "Science of the Mind" - 02:44
  7. "Mister Auditor" - 03:18
  8. "Rain" - 04:11
  9. "Something Special" - 03:40
  10. "Finale" - 02:40
  11. "Rain With the Fabulous Entourage" - 03:52

See also

References

  1. Martinez, Julio (November 9, 2004). "A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant". Variety. Reed Business Information. Retrieved 2007-10-27. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  2. ^ Rooney, David (December 10, 2006). "Off Broadway - A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant". Variety. Reed Business Information. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{cite news}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  3. ^ Muther, Christopher (November 24, 2006). "Songs of joy & praise (for L. Ron Hubbard): 'Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant' sets the story of church's founder to music". The Boston Globe. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  4. ^ Dale Michael (December 21, 2006). "Review, A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant". Broadwayworld.com. Retrieved 2007-10-25. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  5. ^ Kendt, Rob (November 1, 2004). "Two Hollywood theater troupes get religion". Variety. Retrieved 2001-10-31. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  6. ^ Gregory, Jean-Michele (March 31, 2005). "A Punk Theologian on Stage and in Song, Profile: Kyle Jarrow". The New York Sun. One SL, LLC. Retrieved 2007-10-24. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  7. ^ Grode, Eric (December 22, 2006). "Holiday Jabs and Jeers". The New York Sun. One SL, LLC. pp. Section: Theater. Retrieved 2007-10-24. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  8. ^ Brantley, Ben (December 22, 2003). "THEATER REVIEW; Crayon-Colored Excursion Into Positive Thinking". The New York Times. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  9. ^ McNulty, Charles (October 10, 2004). "Astray in the manger". Los Angeles Times. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  10. Swerdloff, Alexis (January 30, 2004). "Frères prove there is life and theater after college". The Yale Herald. pp. VOL. XXXVII, NO. 3. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  11. Andersen, Kurt (November 29, 2003). "Inspirational Irony". WNYC. Public Radio International. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
    The local president of the historically quite litigious Church of Scientology has made litigious noises about "A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant." "In general..I don't think you should ridicule a religion that helps people."
  12. ^ Zinoman, Jason (November 14, 2003). "On Stage and Off: A Church's Concerns". The New York Times. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  13. ^ Weinstein, Jerry (December 2006). "A CurtainUp Review: A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant". CurtainUp. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
    Back in 2003 the avant garde theater group Les Freres Corbusier used media jujitsu to thwart the Church of Scientology after being threatened by a lawsuit by the Rev. John Carmichael, the Church's New York president. "Unauthorized" was added to the piece's title not merely for effect but to cushion the company against impending litigation.
  14. ^ Pincus-Roth, Zachary (December 21, 2003). "Scientology's Child's Play". The New York Times. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  15. ^ Jarrow, Kyle (November 2, 2004). A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant: Original Soundtrack Album. Les Freres Corbusier, Tank Records. pp. Page 3, (Soundtrack Album booklet). {{cite book}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  16. ^ Mikulan, Steven (October 28, 2004). "I Believe in Miracles: Looking for God in all the wrong places". LA Weekly. LA Weekly, LP. pp. Theater, Pages 1-2. Retrieved 2007-10-25. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  17. Murray, Matthew (December 10, 2006). "A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant". Talkin' Broadway. www.TalkinBroadway.Org, Inc. pp. Section, Off Broadway: Not Your Grandma's Theatre. Retrieved 2007-10-25. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  18. ^ Hernandez, Ernio (October 15, 2004). "Youngsters Play Hollywood Spirituals in A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant". Playbill. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  19. ^ Hernandez, Ernio (September 15, 2006). "A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant Returns to NYC". Playbill. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  20. Hernandez, Ernio (November 5, 2004). "A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant Extends in Los Angeles". Playbill. Retrieved 2007-10-25. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  21. Hernandez, Ernio (May 19, 2004). "OBIE Winner A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant Gets L.A. Run and CD". Playbill. Retrieved 2007-10-27. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  22. ^ Glaister, Dan (October 22, 2004). "Curtain goes up on Scientology: At last, audiences can discover the secrets of Scientology without being zapped by the fabled electropsychometer". The Guardian. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  23. ^ Henerson, Even (October 30, 2004). "Scientology skewered on stage in childish musical". Los Angeles Daily News. Toronto Star Newspapers, Ltd. {{cite news}}: |access-date= requires |url= (help); Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  24. Hernandez, Ernio (November 29, 2006). "A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant Starts Anew in New York [[November 29]]". Playbill. Retrieved 2007-10-27. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help); URL–wikilink conflict (help)
  25. Hernandez, Hernio (November 9, 2006). "Cast Ready for NYTW Return of A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant". Playbill. Retrieved 2007-10-27. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  26. Bell, Thomas (December 27, 2006). "Artistic license: Rounding out the year in visual arts, theater, books, and the performing and culinary arts - Curt Holman's Top 10 Plays of 2006". creativeloafing.com. Creative Loafing Media, Creative Loafing Atlanta. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  27. Daulerio, A. J. (October 11, 2007). "Because You've Always Wanted to Play the Part of L. Ron Hubbard". The Daily Examiner, Philadelphia. Metrocorp, Inc,. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)CS1 maint: extra punctuation (link)
  28. Staff. "Theatrical Season: On The Mainstage". Dad's Garage Theatre Company. Retrieved 2007-10-28. {{cite web}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  29. Staff. "OBIES Awards". The Village Voice. pp. "2004 Winners", Special Citations: Kyle Jarrow and Alex Timbers A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  30. Editors of Time Magazine (2004). The Time Almanac 2005. Time Inc. pp. Page 252. ISBN ISBN 1932273352. {{cite book}}: |last= has generic name (help); Check |isbn= value: invalid character (help); Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  31. Staff. "2003–2004 Obie Awards: The 2003–2004 Obie Awards, honoring distinguished achievement in Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway productions, were presented on May 17, 2004, at New York's Webster Hall". Information Please Database. Pearson Education, Inc. Retrieved 2007-10-23. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  32. Staff (January 24, 2007). "Josefsberg, Lysy, Etc. Set for Free 'Red Beard' Reading". Broadwayworld.com, BWW News Desk. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  33. Staff. "Alex Timbers". Gutenberg! The Musical! - (Creative). Retrieved 2007-10-23. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
    "Alex Timbers (Director) Recent credits include Hell House (St. Ann's Warehouse), underground with David Dorfman Dance (BAM Next Wave and US tour), A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant (New York Theatre Workshop; OBIE Award—NYC; Garland Award, Best Director—LA).."
  34. Mufson, Daniel (December 3, 2003). "Never Mind the Dianetics, Here's the Kiddie Scientologists". The Village Voice. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  35. Staff (November 2004). "A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant". Sh-K-Boom Records, Kurt Deutsch. pp. "Disclaimer". Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  36. ^ Westergaard, Sean. "Original Soundtrack, A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant". All Music Guide. pp. AMG Album ID: R 714785. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)

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