34west marks 10 years with ‘John, His Story’

Staff report

COLUMBIANA

The 34west Theater Company will celebrate its 10th anniversary with a production of its first offering — “John, His Story” — Friday at Das Dutch Village.

With the help of Houston actresses Whitney Presley and Jessica Burger, 34west co-founders Jeffrey Querin and Stephen Baldwin produced “John,” a modern re-telling of the Book of John, in August of 2000.

The four actors will reunite for a special one-night only performance.

“The play captures the essence of who 34west is,” said Querin, 34west’s artistic director. “It’s accessible; it’s optimistic and chalk full of laughs.”

This modern take on the gospel depicts the seven miracles in the book of John as seen by observers at each event.

From feeding five thousand people to seeing Jesus walk on water, audiences experience the trials and triumphs of Jesus’ life.

Querin said the style of placing classic stories in a modern setting is part of 34west’s niche in the theater community.

“We’ve had amazing success with our other re-imagined works, as well,” he said. “People love our mysteries and our Christmas shows, but the adaptations are what have made us known around the country.”

In addition to having offices in Boardman, the troupe expanded to Long Island City, N.Y., in 2008. Querin said he hopes to announce a limited engagement of “My Name is Ruth” in Manhattan in the fall.

“Part of the purpose of the gala May 14th is to raise awareness and support for our upcoming stint in the Big Apple.”

The gala will feature hors d’ oeuvres and selected desserts and a fine-art raffle.