A Crusade Against Religion: 'The Faithkiller'

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IMAGINE A SHOW about an atheistic superhero whose mission is to "cure" religious extremism, which has been discovered by scientists as a genetic flaw.

It's hard to see that one getting past the network executives, but that's exactly what happens in Gwydion Suilebhan's "The Faithkiller," Taffety Punk Theatre Company's latest offering. Using a dizzying array of media and a talented cast, director Marcus Kyd weaves together a production that's both amusing and thought-provoking.

The play contains a half-dozen story lines, but at its center is a young TV producer, Mary (Kimberly Gilbert), who resurrects her recently discovered grandfather Henry's (Steve Beall) 1940s radio character, the Faithkiller. Instead of Henry's World War II Nazi-fighting soldier, however, Mary's slightly futuristic Faithkiller is an atheistic superhero.

Henry isn't pleased. Neither is Mother Manda (Tanera Hutz), a Baptist community leader who leads a public crusade against the show, which has become extremely popular. But her elderly neighbor, Elijah (Joseph W. Lane), enjoys both the 1940s and modern versions of the show with his troubled grandson, Cool (Kasaun T. Wilson).

Scenes depicting the 1940s radio broadcasts — with sound effects by Frankie (Michael John Casey) — provide particular delight. "The Faithkiller" might be balancing one too many stories, but its able cast and direction provide much to enjoy.

» Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, 545 7th St. SE; through April 18, $10; 800-838-3006. (Eastern Market)

Written by Express contributor Erin Trompeter
Photo courtesy Marcus Kyd