Damascus: A Full-Length Drama About … Signs of the Times

51 Male Characters/28 Female Characters-Can be Played by as FEW as 9 Males/6 Females (With Actors Playing Multiple Roles)In this drama that’s a bit too close to current events, Caleb Martinez, grandson of the infamous leader of the Elect Street Church, known for its anti-Semitic, anti-gay, anti-American, and anti-military rants (as well as protesting the funerals of American soldiers) struggles with becoming his own man, in his role as both lawyer and New York actor, trying to break free of the bonds of his past. However, the task is harder than he realizes. As he fights to establish his own identity in his modern, urban life, the audience is given insight into the history of the church and of Caleb’s much-hated, powerful grandfather, the Reverend Jeremiah Coffee-including all the steps that have led him to his controversial stances. Jeremiah pushes to exert control over his grandson and his kingdom, but Caleb learns that dignity, integrity, and even faith itself doesn’t have to come from the package presented by his grandfather or even the philosophies dictated to him by those in his professional circles. He stands up, but is it too late-for everyone?Warning: This play deals overtly, yet delicately, with very controversial themes. Some are offended at the discussion of topics concerning modern life such as anti-American sentiments, sexuality, religion, politics, and deceit; others are offended at the discussion of forgiveness and grace.