The Spirit and Truth Worship Center filled the Performing Arts Center with much laughter and praise Saturday evening with its comedic drama titled “Church Folk.”

The lights dimmed and everyone anticipated the beginning of the show. Audience members were so excited for the show that the first scene was welcomed with a warm round of applause. The story began to unravel with a first scene encouraging the abundance of laughter from those in the crowd.  The main character,Tyler, scattered about at the unexpected arrival of his family members as the crowd was being introduced to the play’s characters for the first time that night.

Based on the trials and tribulations of several of the characters, who were prestigious church members, “Church Folk” shed some light on what goes on behind closed doors. Everyone had their own separate issues that varied and allowed the audience to able to connect on more of a personal level.

Produced by both Pastor Paul Johnson and junior theater major Marissa Collier, a lot of work was put into the production. It took almost three weeks to produce but with the determination of all of those involved it was well worth their efforts.

Performers did very well at this stage play. The actors portrayed and reflected their characters and had the audience involved in some parts of the show.  Many of these actors were GSU students, including stage characters as well as stage hands and even one of the producers — Collier.

In addition to the actors and producers, there was a band that provided some of the background music and created the atmosphere for the production. Also made up of GSU students and a few volunteers, the band added important components to the play.

Audience members showed approval with loud cheers and applause to make the actors feel at ease during the performance. Everyone was invited and a diverse audience came to see the play. What had once started as a crowd full of curious college students had definitely transformed into something more. Those in the crowd ranged from elderly church members, to local Statesboro residents and many GSU students.

Some were surprised by the mixture of audience members.

“It feels really good to see the community come out in support,” Vitria Pinktston, a senior in business management, said.

PJAZE Production group has produced other plays, such as “I Got the Power” and “Looking for Love in All the Wrong Places,” but consider this production to be its staple play, bringing in the majority of crowds on showing nights.

Producer of “Church Folk”, Johnson, said “it’s Christian entertainment with a message.”