In the introduction to the Imagination Symposium, I mentioned that I would be writing on synthetic imagination. Recent conversations with colleagues, however, persuaded me that the term ‘synthetic’ unfortunately connotes either artificiality (e.g. synthetic leather vs. real leather) or Hegelian…
Wes Vander Lugt’s thesis on the ‘theatrical turn’ in Christianity concludes below. To restate his thesis in full: Christian existence is a dialogical, divine drama performed by ecclesial companies who, having received new roles as children of God through union…
Due to circumstances outside our control, Josh Edelman’s post has been moved to Saturday. Today, please enjoy Part One of Wes Vander Lugt’s A Thesis on the Theatrical Turn in Christian Thought and Practice. Christian theologians have always drawn on theatrical…
At the heart of advent is the attitude of receptivity. Gabriel appears to Mary and delivers the earth-shattering news: “You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus.” Mary’s…
A Review of Kevin Taylor and Giles Waller, eds., Christian Theology and Tragedy: Theologians, Tragic Literature and Tragic Theory (Ashgate, 2011). Christians are quick to claim a comedic faith, highlighting not the hilarity of Christian existence, but the ultimate victory…
What does saving seeds have to do with splendor, or responsible waste disposal with wonder, or biodiversity with beauty? Everything, according to Belden Lane, especially when viewed through the lens of Reformed theology. For those who understand Reformed theology to…
Christopher R. Brewer, ed., Art that Tells the Story. Grand Rapids, MI: Gospel through Shared Experience, 2011. 102 pp., $24.99 paper. Don’t open the book right away. Put it in your hands, feel its heft, appreciate the cover. Are you ready? This…
“It is the immemorial dream of the talentless that a sufficient devotion to doctrine will produce art.” -David Mamet, Theatre The American playwright and director David Mamet does not mince his words. He detests arrogant intellectuals who claim they can…
In participatory theatre, everyone involved produces a work that no one could accomplish alone. Is it the same when we are performing the faith?