Play Review: How to Write a New Book for the Bible

"Writers are told to write what they know. But as Bill Cain discovers in writing about his own family, sometimes those we are closest to are the biggest mysteries of all. From the writer of Equivocation comes a beautiful new play taken from Cain’s own experiences caring for his dying mother. He asks the questions that speak to the heart of every family: What will never change…and what has to? A Jesuit priest as well as a playwright, Cain brings a fascinating view to this simple, powerful illustration of why the details of our lives and loves matter." ~The Seattle Repertory Theater

This play is one of the best plays to come out of the Seattle Rep theater this season and it is by far my favorite! I am so glad I got to see this play. I would highly recommend you go see it, however, it closes today. Sad! Well, if it ever comes back, you'll know to go take a look!

This play managed to be funny, serious, and poignant all at the same time, and not necessary in that order. According to the playwright, Cain, this is the most autobiographical play he has written. I find that the stories we tell of our lives are some of the best; much better than stories we fabricate.

Our own universal truths are those we can share with others.

(As far as I know) I have never see a play written by a priest. Most of the time now I only see priests in church, and not so much in other places. When I attended a Jesuit university a few of my professors were Jesuits.

How does being a priest affect your playwriting and vice versa? 

I’m a Jesuit priest, and the Jesuits weren’t founded to live in a cloister or a monastery. We’re supposed to go into the world, find the presence of God there and celebrate it. I’d say that was a pretty good description of what all of us in theatre do as well. Theatre is always proclaiming “attention must be paid” to what is neglected and holy. Willy Loman. Antigone. Blanche. In this play—Mary. The jobs of writer and priest—as “Bill” says in the play—are closely related. In both, you point and say, “Look. Look there. That person you haven’t noticed—he, she matters. ~Bill Cain, Interview, Berkeley Repertory Theater

Cain's play shines light on the important things. That's what writing should do. That's what art should do.