DIVINE SISTER Repsonds to Catholic Upset Over Nun Portrayal

New York's Archbishop Dolan has taken issue with the off-Broadway production of the DIVINE SISTER, or more specifically, the New York Time's response to the production by running a questionable production photo which, he feels "offends Catholic sensitivity" by "making fun of Catholic consecrated women." For the ongoing dialogue, click here.

Today, the producers of THE DIVINE SISTER have stepped into the fray, issuing the following response: 

"Charles Busch is a wonderfully talented playwright who for decades has lovingly parodied classic Hollywood films in his work. His newest play, THE DIVINE SISTER, continues that tradition as a comic homage to nearly every Hollywood film involving nuns: The Song of Bernadette, The Bells of St. Mary's, The Singing Nun and Agnes of God.

The image the New York Times ran on Friday, October 15, 2010 of THE DIVINE SISTER shows Mother Superior teaching Timothy how to properly hold a baseball bat. This scene references the classic 1945 film The Bells of St. Mary's where Ingrid Bergman as Sister Mary Benedict gives a young boy boxing lessons.

THE DIVINE SISTER is not a commentary on religious faith; it is a joyous look at these films. While our show is indeed irreverent, it is a celebration of the nuns in those iconic works, with a wink and a smile.

Since we began performances, audiences of all faiths have loved the show. In addition, critics, including the New York Times, have universally embraced THE DIVINE SISTER as "comic heaven" (NY1) and "a miracle" (New York Magazine)."

THE DIVINE SISTER, the new comedy written by and starring Charles Busch, directed by Carl Andress (The Third Story; Die, Mommie, Die!), opened at SoHo Playhouse (15 Vandam Street.) on September 22.

In addition to Busch as 'Mother Superior' the cast features, Julie Halston, Alison Fraser, Amy Rutberg, Jennifer Van Dyck, and Jonathan Walker.

THE DIVINE SISTER is Charles Busch's outrageous comic homage to nearly every Hollywood film involving nuns: The Song of Bernadette, The Bells of St. Mary's, The Singing Nun and Agnes of God. THE DIVINE SISTER tells the story of St. Veronica's indomitable Mother Superior (played by Charles Busch). Come join this madcap trip through Tinseltown religiosity from the creator of Die Mommie Die, Psycho Beach Party and Vampire Lesbians of Sodom.

The creative team includes: Scenic and Graphic Design by B.T. Whitehill, Costume Design by Fabio Toblini, Lighting Design by Kirk Bookman, Sound Design by Jill BC DuBoff, Wig Design by Katherine Carr, and Original Music by Lewis Flinn.

THE DIVINE SISTER is presented by Daryl Roth and Bob Boyett.

For more information on THE DIVINE SISTER, to get exclusive offers, and to follow the cast and creative team as they prepare to make the move to Soho Playhouse, join the Facebook fan group: www.facebook.com/divinesisteronstage or visit www.DivineSisterOnstage.com

Photo Credit: David Rodgers

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