The Atlantic Theater Company’s Off Broadway production of Bubba Weiler’s play "The Saviors" offers a nuanced exploration of faith, adolescence, and betrayal within a Roman Catholic setting. Running through August 15 at the Linda Gross Theater in Manhattan, the play presents a contemplative atmosphere deeply rooted in religious symbolism, brought to life by director Jack Serio and set designer David Zinn.
Set in a meticulously recreated Catholic chancel—complete with altar, baptismal font, and stained-glass windows—the narrative centers on two altar boys, 14-year-old Paul (Julius Rinzel) and 13-year-old Michael (Ivan Howe). The boys navigate their youth amid church rituals, with confirmation serving as a pivotal milestone that intertwines their spiritual commitments and personal feelings. Michael’s eagerness to choose Paul as his confirmation saint reflects his intense attachment, which adds emotional complexity to their friendship. Meanwhile, Paul struggles with Michael’s devotion, torn between his beliefs and the homophobic attitudes prevalent in their church community.
The play introduces a third key figure, Julian (Stanley Simons), an itinerant seeking refuge from a storm. Styled to evoke a scruffy, unconventional Jesus by costume designer Avery Reed, Julian’s character embodies both literal and allegorical roles, symbolizing themes of hospitality, addiction, and abandonment. His presence challenges the boys' innocence and serves as a catalyst for the unfolding drama.
Crystal Finn portrays Judy, a youth group leader whose nervous enthusiasm masks deeper desperation and whose ambiguous relationship with Julian adds layers to the play’s themes of forgiveness and betrayal. Judy’s character provides a tonal balance, injecting humor and emotional depth that counterpoint the boys’ intertwined struggles.
Weiler, who began writing the play at 19 based on his own experiences as an altar boy, delivers a script marked by tenderness and subtlety. While some viewers may find the pacing deliberate, the performances give authenticity to the portrayal of adolescent turmoil. Serio draws strong, believable performances from the young actors, capturing the awkward, sincere nature of teenage faith and friendship.
"The Saviors" leans heavily on Christian imagery and allegory, inviting audiences to reconsider familiar ideas about devotion, doubt, and grace. The play’s conclusion, particularly a poignant gesture from Michael to Julian, lends retrospective significance to preceding events, underscoring the piece’s layered narrative.
Overall, the production challenges viewers to reflect on the complexities of faith and identity during formative years, demonstrating the ongoing tension between childlike belief and the often harsh realities of adulthood.