"Avow" to Have its Final Showing Sunday Afternoon in Somerset

"Avow" a play about religion, love, committment and being human will have its final show at 2 p.m. today at the Villagers Theatre in Somerset.

Directed by South Brunswick resident Darren Nye and his production company, the Triangle Circle Players, "Avow", written Bill C. Davis follows the relationship of Tom and Brian, two men looking to have their engagement blessed by their Catholic priest at Mass.

At the same time, Brian's sister, Irene is pregnant with an illegitimate child, and plans to give the baby to Tom and Brian to be raised. Irene takes up the cause of Brian and Tom being recognized by the church and begins a tumultuous relationship with their priest, Father Raymond.

What follows is a lengthy look at how religion and life do and do not fit together.

Earlier this month, Nye told that the play's subject matter resounded in his own life.

"It kind of goes back into my history dealing with a family member who is an Evangelical Christian and feels that I'm a sinner," Nye said. "I won't go into detail, but her relationship with me reminds me of the parts of the play that deal with the Catholic Church and their views on gay marriage."

Well acted and succinctly directed, with a few dry laughs thrown in to counter the serious subject matter, "Avow" is a thought and conversation provoking piece.

The actors in the show are relatable, especially Tom, a veterinarian whose entire life is thrown into turmoil after meeting with Father Raymond, who tells him that the church will not accept his relationship with Brian, and celibacy is the way to stay pure.

"Avow" will end a three-day run at the Villagers Theatre today with a 2 p.m. matinee. Tickets are $12.

For more information on the Villagers Theatre, located at 475 Demott Lane in Somerset, click here.