MBS Productions to Present JOHN XII, 5/29-6/29

By: May. 15, 2014
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MBS Productions presents the play JOHN XII by Mark-Brian Sonna, running May 29 - June 29, 2014.

Shows are every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night at 8 PM. Added shows are Wednesday, June 18th at 8 PM, Saturday Matinee June 21st at 2 PM, and Sunday Matinee June 29th at 2 PM. Tickets range from $18 - $23 and can be purchased online at www.MBSProductions.net or by calling 214-477-4942.

Who was John XII? A backstabbing, bitchy, conniving, manipulative, sexy, lustful, and wickedly funny man that changed the world. His real name was Octavius, and for 8 years he ruled the world. He was a lover of women and men, and he was appointed Pope at the age of 18. Was he a devil or a saint? You decide. This comedic drama is based on the historical, outrageous, and controversial events surrounding John's ascent to the papacy. This play contains adult language, sexual situations, and brief male nudity. No one under 18 allowed.

The play had its original premiere in 2009. Playwright Mark-Brian Sonna calls John XII "a play that I consider to be one my best as a writer. Even though the subject is dramatic it is perhaps the funniest play I've ever written."

When asked why he chose to write a play about a pope from the 10th century he stated: "John XII was a revolutionary that altered the geo-political landscape of the world, but because the people who knew him personally hated him so much he was relegated to the back pages of history and they actively suppressed his accomplishments, even though at the time the general populace adored him. In his short life he accomplished many positive things for the people, yet the way he went about doing it behind closed doors was simply outrageous. He is an embarrassment to the Catholic Church because he was so corrupt, but on the other hand, he revolutionized the Catholic Church and most modern democracies are indebted to him because of one particular ground breaking accomplishment which is revealed at the climax of the play. I had to bring his story to light which required quite a bit of research of ancient manuscripts and texts, some of which have never been translated into English."

The play is directed by Mark-Brian Sonna. The role of John XII is being played by Jake Bowman who is making his theatrical debut. David Swanner as Bishop Liutprand and Mike Hathaway as King Berengerius are reprising their roles. Brian Cook, Jeny Caisman, Robert Twaddell, round out the cast.

For more information about the production you may contact MBS Productions vie email at info@mark-briansonna.com, by calling 214-477-4942, or to read more about the production, visit www.MBSProductions.net.

 

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