"Filichia uses this dramatic situation as a way to get in sharply observed comedic digs at the hypocrisy of these religious swindlers. And though that is pretty much akin to shooting fish in a barrel, the lines come fast and furious, resulting in an impressive ratio of precise aim to targets hit...Throughout this bare-bones production, well directed by Christopher Scott, Filichia’s points are made succinctly and entertainingly."
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“This almost skit-like play earns only modest laughter because the territory of religious hypocrisy is so exhaustingly well-worn in popular culture...Filichia is preaching to the choir. That said, all three actors give fine performances...This comedy doesn’t tread any new ground or offer any new insights, and is unlikely to change any minds but for those already converted it does offer a charming retread of an age-old phenomenon.”
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"The theater has a varied relationship with God, but never closer than 'God Shows Up.' Here he is a direct character, appearing on the television show of a popular televangelist. God makes an appearance on the non-denominational, but quite capitalistic, Dr. Thomas Issac Rehan show to participate in some give and take. God has returned to correct some mistakes and characterizations in the holy books and set the record straight with regards to many things said in his name."
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“Combining comedy and faith into one hilarious yet timely play...Between the light-hearted comedy, especially the playful banter between Rehan and God, there are real issues of today sprinkled throughout, including equality, gender, sexuality, and the act of worshipping another identity. The audience leaves the show with not only a good laugh but compassion for others, and a better sense of what we hope God really is and wants us to be.”
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"Filichia, best known as a theater historian and critic, is surely preaching to the choir with this satirical jab at the likes of Joel Osteen and Pat Robertson...So, low-hanging fruit it is, but fortunately blessed with a talented trinity of Equity actors...A lightly acerbic tone is set for the first half of the 80-minute play...Overall, 'God Shows Up' contributes a new slant to the eternal debate over the role and influence of religiosity in our lives."
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“’God Shows Up’ is more about epigrams and sub-Shavian religious debates than plot, so 75 minutes feels like 20 too many – especially after a gender switch and Armageddon-like twist extend the already obvious. Happily, Lou Liberatore makes an exceedingly ingratiating God...While he can’t rescue ‘God Shows Up’ from its more laborious triflings, his buoyancy is a blessing nonetheless.”
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"Neat puns, polished one-liners and wacky plot twists all breezily elicits a lot of laughter while wickedly skewering organized religion, social media and celebrity culture. Mr. Filichia’s disciplined treatment of these perennial subjects is highly comedic yet imparts its sober message with brio...The expertly defined characters make terrific roles for actors to play...Director Scott’s forceful staging lands all of the verbal and visual jokes while maintaining the play’s thoughtful aspects."
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“A compelling and entertaining existential romp through dogma, philosophy, and the meaning of life. Fun surprises, plot twists and one liners abound! It’s a fun night out that will have you talking...’God Shows Up’ is great ecclesiastical fun and delightfully examines humankind’s favorite life questions. Nietzsche would give it 5 stars and I too highly recommend it, even if God frowns at audiences that have to pay admission – indulge!”
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