'I Love to Tell the Story:' Teaching Theater at a Church-Related College

Abstract

In this chapter the author introduces his drama troupe, which is called Soul Purpose. This group travel to different places performing plays based on Bible stories. The author of this chapter was raised in a Lutheran Church. There are three things a theater professor does: lead the students to tell stories; teach students the techniques in telling a story; and think and talk with students about the outcome of the play. The author, as a professor at Valparaiso University, assists students in seeing the connection between theater and God. This is achievable through applying and showing Christian values such as humility, generosity, responsibility, and community.