A young woman from northern Africa was given a choice:
“Renounce Jesus, or be killed.”
While this theme could have been torn from today’s headlines in too many places, this true story, written by the hand of Vibia Perpetua, was recorded in 203 AD. One of the earliest known writings by a woman, Perpetua writes about her journey in which she must decide whether what she believes, and ultimately who she is, is worth the loss of family, children, the chance to live in peace, and even her very life.

Perpetua’s struggle is brought to life in a new movie, The Diary of Perpetua, produced by Still Small Theatre Troupe. Set in a modern-day context, this powerful and moving drama follows Perpetua and a small band of Christians as they struggle with the ultimatum presented by the authorities. What internal pain wracked those forced to choose? What will be their fate? Will their families accept their choices, or will they die alienated from family, friends, and society because of their choices?

The movie premieres on Sunday, April 10 at 2:00 pm on the campus of Gordon College, at 255 Grapevine Road, Wenham, MA in the MacDonald auditorium of the Ken Olsen Science Center.

Tickets are now on sale at the Still Small Theatre Troupe Website at stillsmalltheatre.com. Regular admission is $15. Student admission is $10.

The troupe also has available a special VIP experience that includes a private catered dessert, priority seating, private Q&A with cast and crew, acknowledgement by name at the event, and some surprise gifts! Tickets for the VIP experience are limited and must be purchased in advance for $100 per ticket.

Led by Jasmine Myers, the Still Small Theatre Troupe is a local performing arts group. Gathering actors from around the country for the Perpetua project the Still Small Theatre Troupe adapted the Perpetua movie from an original play by the same name in response to live performance restrictions due to Covid-19 protocols. The Troupe has performed plays live in many places, from prisons and parks to churches and corporate functions. To learn more about the Troupe, or to learn how you may be able to access their repertoire for your local church or group, email to StillSmallTheatre@gmail.com or visit the website, stillsmalltheatre.com.