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Frequently Asked
Questions about hosting a performance of
Table of Contents
How complicated is it to arrange a performance in my community?After working out details with us, the main tasks will be arranging the venue and publicizing the event. We provide host communities with helpful information (such as a checklist and a timeline) to make your job easier and to help avoid surprises. Back to Top
Will it cost money to bring "On the Rooftop" to my community?Yes. Many communities, however, have found it possible to recoup most, if not all, of their expenditures through ticket sales. Details will be provided to interested parties. Back to Top
Can the show be performed in a Bahá'í Center or other non-theatre space?While theatre spaces have certain advantages, Bahá’í centers and other generic spaces are usually adequate. Space requirements will be provided upon request. Back to Top
Is this play appropriate for a general audience?The play is adapted from William Sears’ book, God Loves Laughter, which is a favorite of many Bahá’ís. Like that book, On the Rooftop with Bill Sears can be understood by anyone and does not require any special knowledge of Bahá’í terminology to appreciate. That being said, the ideal audience for this show is the Bahá’ís and their friends. The central struggle of the play involves a man (Bill Sears) with a childhood dream that eventually leads him first to question whether, and ultimately to believe that, Jesus Christ has returned. Back to Top
Is this play appropriate for children? If so, what ages?Many children really love this play. We say it’s appropriate for ages 8 and up, but parents are probably the best judge whether their child can sit through the performance. (N.B., A play requires a more active attention span than TV or movies do.) Back to Top
How long does the play last?The play is about 75 minutes long, and there’s no intermission. After the show, many communities enjoy having a talkback, which generally lasts about 15 minutes. Back to Top
Has "On the Rooftop" been reviewed by the US Bahá'í National Literature Review?Yes, and we’re happy to provide interested parties with a copy of the original letter. Back to Top
How does drama fit into the priorities of the current stage of development in our community?This is an important question, and it may be that different communities will have different answers. The Drama Circle did receive a letter from the Universal House of Justice Dept. of the Secretariat (dated 16 March 2004) saying the following: “The House of Justice wished for us to express to you its delight in learning about the recent accomplishments of the Drama Circle and to convey its warmest encouragement of your work. The place of the arts, especially the performing arts, in delivering the spirit and teachings of the Faith is of great importance. The arts have a special capacity not only to stimulate people’s thinking but, even more, to touch their hearts and open their eyes to new possibilities.” Given the importance of the arts, Bahá’í communities may consider incorporating this play, and other artistic endeavors, into their cluster campaigns. Back to Top
Can you provide us with letters of recommendation from communities that have sponsored the show previously?Sure, at your request. Back to Top
Is Mark Perry available to speak with junior youth, youth and adults about drama, and maybe lead a workshop with them?Certainly. When your community sponsors a performance of On the Rooftop, Mark Perry is happy to make himself available (time permitting) to encourage the arts and the budding artists in your community. Back to Top
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