Please read, sign and share. Make a stand against censorship. http://www.change.org/petitions/wisconsin-department-of-natural-resources-reinstate-the-permit-for-production-of-the-bible

Can't get too excited about this. Probably wouldn't have gone over well in that area, anyways. You need to find a sympathetic venue, somewhere on MIlwaukee's East Side or in Bay View.

Thanks for the comment, Bob. However, I find it hard to believe that not everyone can get at least a little excited and angered over censorship by a government agency. The right to freedom of speech has no geographical boundaries.

Well, Matthew, I try to imagine what might happen if it was found out that a group had rented out a similar venue on state property in one of those two areas I mentioned to put on something some interpreted as promoting religion, and I'm pretty sure the results would have been the same. So no, not even getting a little excited or angry about this.

I'm also not sure that meets the technical definition of censorship, either, as they haven't prevented the group from putting the same show on somewhere else at this point. But I could be wrong on that point.

Point taken, Bob.

The production does not promote any religion nor is is blasphemous. It is just a fun, humorous play. What the DNR did was wrong. It was wrong of them to give in to harassment and threats from Christian extremists. And if it's not censorship, what is it?

But, the location doesn't matter so much anymore. It seems a new venue has been found for staging the show in Milwaukee. The show will go on! It will be interesting to see if the intimidation and manipulation from VCY follows.

The government frequently gives in to anti-religious zealots who can't stand to see a nativity scene on public property or who are offended by religious icons when secular activities are held in church buildings generously offered to accommodate the same because public venues are unavailable or inadequate - or any other of a number of similar types of offenses to the sensibilities of the anti-religious. That happens far more frequently than instances like this one.

All of those instances are as "wrong" as is this one. How you view it just depends on whether or not you're on the receiving end of a ruling like this one.

Agreed as well, Bob. We will all fight for what we believe, as many many are expressing their disagreement with the DNR for this instance right now.The other point to remember is that it's not just the public institution. Other venues, not public, where the show tried to stage have been harassed as well. A better, less intimidating course of action from these zealots might have been just to boycott the show as well as inform others. Anyone who doesn't want to see the show, doesn't have to go.

Final installment.....
But to be clear, it is the former situation in which we find ourselves today. And, in fact, you are wrong about the show being prevented from going up somewhere else. The day after the DNR silenced the production in the park, it was announced that the show would be performed at the Delafield Art Center instead (a non-governmental organization). For the rest of that day the women who supervise the center (who often find themselves there alone) received so many harassing phone calls that they began to fear for their own safety, as well as their ability to protect the artwork on display. Out of respect for the physical and mental well being of the women involved, we demurred from our plans to present the show there. In that case, tactics of intimidation and threat won the battle. They will not win the war.
And now that I've expressed myself, Bob, I imagine that you still won't get too excited. But at least I know that the democratic concepts involved have been clearly expressed. Defend them or no, that is your choice.

[Some typos throughout, please forgive me]

So is there any plan to do a comical rendition of the Koran? Why or why not?

The point being, that any time someone makes humor out of what others consider sacred the outcome is considered blasphemous. No one would dare do such a play about the Koran, because it is obvious to all that it would be offensive. Why, then, it is not so obvious in this case?

We can also apply this notion in the secular realm. We can make fun of political positions, for example. We can do a play that makes humor out of pro-choice, pro-life, Demarcates or Republicans. In each case, those being made the object of humor will find it offensive.

As it stands, there are groups of people going around to political events and interrupting as the politicians give their speeches. We all know who does that on a regular basis. I wish those people would have called those who they opposed and voiced their opposition, rather than interrupt free speech. But calling and voicing opposition and protesting outside does not interrupt free speech, nor is it considered "zealous" in this day and age.

Thanks to the DNR for standing up to the anti-Christian bigots. There's no censorship here - after all it's not like anyone is trying to prevent you from presenting your play by blowing vuvuselas when you are speaking. Put on your silly play for your airhead friends in your garage if you want, but not in a venue that the rest of us pay for.

I didn't even know about the show until I heard VCWY America mention it on the radio. I know that they wanted to me to fight the show but it made me curious to watch it instead. I like Bible humor as long as it doesn't go too far. Good luck with the play.

It is probably a good thing that the shows were canceled. I would hate to see another instance of shootings. Safety should be our main concern.

More press from The Progressive. http://www.progressive.org/rightwing-evangelical-gets-play-banned-in-wisconsin-state-park

Confirmed yesterday: The Bible: The Complete Word of God (Abridged) will have it's performances as planned at Next Act Theater in Milwaukee, August 31st - September 9th. For more information and to purchase tickets http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/270533

@ Luke;
"So is there any plan to do a comical rendition of the Koran? Why or why not?"
I will admit to not being very familiar with the Koran. But if I was presented with a piece of theatre that was somehow based on the Koran that also seemed to me to be a worthwhile piece of entertainment, I would very much want to present it. Why would it be unlikely to happen. The answer is in other posts here; Loren's statement,"I would hate to see another instance of shootings." Shortly after Bob's quote, "'Waiting for Gunmen', if you like...." That's the only reason why there is a reticence to perform Islamic oriented works - because of the knowledge that there is a fundamentalist faction that, in their righteousness, have given themselves license to do others harm. Is it your suggestion that Christian fundamentalism should be feared in the same way? Is that what Christianity means to you, Luke? My faith has taught me something different.
But I would like to take this opportunity to give a nod to Salman Rushdie. He is an author and a member of the Islamic faith. I don't know if its fair to say that he has made light of his faith, but certainly its fair to say that he has referenced his faith in ways that have offended Islamic extremists - putting him in a far more dangerous situation than we find ourselves in now. I am a huge admirer of his courage, as well as his talent. If I had the chance to be involved in a production of his work, I would do it in a heartbeat.

What will happen when someone tries to present a "humorous" play mocking the contents of the Koran? Will those who object be called "extremists" or "bigots"?
Personal intimidation and threats are always wrong, no matter what the source. But many of the objections were simply politely stated views--which even we Christians should be allowed to express!

M. Been, Nashotah Wisconsin

@ FBSport,
Your tax dollars do not pay for the performance space at Lapham Peak. The construction of the stage was done with SummerStage's private funds. The DNR allowed a permit for SummerStage to perform there. SummerStage assumes responsibility for all maintenance costs, and finds the funds by charging rent to the individual production companies. By bringing patrons into the park that might not be otherwise familiar with it, SummerStage creates an opportunity for the State to increase its revenue through admissions and use fees, thereby decreasing the need for you to subsidize the park with your tax dollars. If you decide the entertainment is not for you, you save even more money by not buying a ticket. It would have been a win/win for you.

I find it very interesting that there is a belief that this play is an attack on Christianity. As I recall from seeing it, the vast majority of it is based on Old Testament stories. In effect, stories from prior to the existence of Christianity. And the Old Testament is the foundation of all of the Abramanic religions: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. So this is inclusive humor! It is really amazing how people can for opinions about something without so much as the benefit of a Google search.

@Bob: Debating if something is a work of literature or not sounds like a different discussion than the matter at hand. Christian extremists used harassment and fear tactics to stop the show. What they did is wrong. The DNR caved, breached contract and pulled the venue. That too, was wrong. Although they have a right to express their opinion about the production, without even having read it mind you, the evangelist and extremists are the ones, I believe, that began this controversy. Any attention garnered from here on is incidental and never would have occurred if folks had just let them perform their production unfettered.

Humor is of course always subjective, Bob. I did not mean to imply that the bible was not highly regarded by many people. Many highly regarded works receive humorous send-ups on stage, movies or otherwise. It does not mean the writers or performers of such send-ups have a disrespectful attitude toward the source material. In fact, just the opposite might be true.

BTW, these are not amateurs, or in any way amateurish artists putting on this production, they are theater professionals. The office where they go to work every day is the stage. I don’t think amateurs would be invited to perform their production at the long-admired and respected Next Act Theater.

I think the situation is very clear to me here: Democracy and free speech in this situation means people should have had a choice to either attend their production or not and decide for themselves if they appreciate it or not. It was not for someone else to decide for them.

@bob - "little meaningless"?, "not at all that humurous"?, "amateurish"? a burgeoning critic in our midst! the longer the "debate" goes on, hopefully the more tix might be sold. i'm telling everyone i know to go see the play now. MY Jesus would've loved to see this play - http://www.google.com/imgres?hl=en&sa=X&biw=1366&bih=599&tbm=isch&prmd=imvns&tbnid=syMzelQ9UJCF9M:&imgrefurl=http://laughing-jesus.tripod.com/&imgurl=http://laughing-jesus.tripod.com/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/laughpic.jpg&w=2243&h=2864&ei=eRY5UPugBsPI6wGnz4GQCA&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=491&vpy=232&dur=2802&hovh=254&hovw=199&tx=123&ty=135&sig=106492165505959412285&page=1&tbnh=125&tbnw=94&start=0&ndsp=19&ved=1t:429,r:3,s:0,i:131

@bob - regarding your earlier comment, "As I suggested, maybe consider moving to a venue in an area that's more apt to share your view that a lighthearted sendup of the bible is top-notch entertainment. You've got some pretty hardcore christians out in that area. Maybe not right in town, but on the outskirts..."

why not let THOSE people make their OWN decisions as to what they feel is or isn't appropriate?

Bob, just curious, are you saying that freedom of speech has an "appropriate venue"? Isn't that antithetical what free speech is?

"taking the bait"? "looks like i was right"? i didn't know this was all about you, bob. check your Bible about what Jesus said about the pharisees....

your need to be right and to bait people, bob...sounds like "pride". don't worry - i will keep you in my prayers.

oh now I'M getting upset over nothing? you're the one who referred to the production and actors in it as "...little meaningless not all that humorous amateurish production...". my apologies. better venue. sell more tickets. got it - so i should just forget the entire incident? never happened? now i get where you're coming from, bob. i had you figured out all wrong. (well hey, i mean, if bob is right about Delafield not being the proper venue for such a production and being the omnipotent spokesperson for the religious folks in the Lake Country area, perhaps i should listen to him and "settle down"...)

thanks, bob. i take direction well - ask anyone who knows me. @ lyle - i appreciate your sentiment but bob's cynicism has nothing to do with the fact that he lumped a production and it's actors into the "little meaningless, not all that humorous amateurish production" category. it's rude and condescending. unless of course, bob was being facetious....then i failed to catch his humor and he needs to communicate better and try and be less witty.

like i said, bob....rude.

early risers, we are. recognizing one's faults is the first key to overcoming them, bob. good for you. "provocative"?? noooo....no, i didn't gather that from your comments.

i think that's a good idea, bob. you have a pleasant sunday as well.

Atheists are anarchists. They must be dealt with harshly.

I am a tax payer in Waukesha and want my parks to reflect my communities openness and inclusion of all thoughts and ideas. I enthusiastically play up the parks system in Waukesha County and use the parks almost daily for walking, running, teaching and daily reflection of it's beauty. Therefore when I want to sit out for an evening of theater, music or just a family gathering I know my park reflects who we are as a community. I am greatly disappointed but not surprised by the restrictive view of some Waukesha residents and outside sources. I will be glad to see the play in a new venue and thank you for bringing it to our attention. We want to see it even more now. We have a group of six couples looking forward to it. I'm sure the businesses near Next Stage will love our business. (Sorry local Delafield businesses we won't be seeing you this month) Waukesha will have to start a new mantra "Only Open For Business If You Agree With Everything We Believe In Or Can Bully You Into"

nice comment, KKM.

KKM - I doubt if you really mean it when you say 'want my parks to reflect my communities openness and inclusion of all thoughts and ideas.'. Everybody draws the line somewhere. You can accept a play joking about Christianity. How would you feel about one poking fun at the global warming hoaxers and their fake data and deleted emails? Or a play about protesters in Madison behaving like idiots, defecating on police cars or locking their empty heads to rotunda railings? Or maybe a Koran laugh a minute send up. Sounds pretty funny, huh?

I could go on, but you get the point. What you call entertainment someone else thinks is offensive and what they like you might find objectionable. One small group's right to free speech does not overwhelm the rights of everyone else. That's why the DNR did the right thing here. And don't think a tiny minority can get away any longer with bullying the majority by calling them intolerant or racist or other names - those days are coming to an end.

(watch out KKM, FBSports is telling you what you really meant to say. like the radio evangelist, who thinks he speaks for all Christians.) @FBSport - "bullying the majority"? so you're saying the thoughts expressed by the WVCY radio host are thoughts of the majority????? now that's interesting....

i never attributed a comment you made to the radio host. i said your comment is LIKE the radio hosts comment. meaning they are similar in what they're conveying. and i did address one thing you said - about bullying the "majority"...i don't believe the radio hosts listeners ARE the majority. and i might add, i wouldn't say those who wanted the theater production are the "bully's". it was the radio show host who raised a raucous and got people to call the DNR.

Jesus Christ Superstar has been considered blasphemous by a number of Christian groups. There's always going to be anti-intellectualism. Jesus said, "Let the children come unto Me." My interpretation of that remark is that He meant actual children and also those new to the Word of God." While the vehicle of God's Word may be (and often is) untraditional, I think it must be a greedy and sinful christian who tries to prohibit others from experiencing His teachings.

I am not sure if this has yet to be pointed out; however, I thought it was the non-religious sectors in our society that are demanding complete division between church and state.
http://www.630wpro.com/Article.asp?id=2483587
http://www.opposingviews.com/i/religion/christianity/atheist-marines-challenge-camp-pendleton-cross?page=30
http://nation.foxnews.com/ground-zero/2012/08/21/militant-atheists-attack-ground-zero-cross
I am sure I could find countless other examples.

If this is anti-christian (or at minimum Christian Satire) and it is allowed to be performed in a state park; then isn't the state sanctioning the hatred (or mocking) of Christianity. This restriction by the state should be a proud moment for all those fighting for the separation of church and state.

FBSport - sorry for the confusion. perhaps it is me - or not.

you said, "And don't think a tiny minority can get away any longer with bullying the majority..."

let me ask you then to clarify who, by your definition, is the "tiny minority" and who is the "majority".

and you can "attempt" away any number of times you'd like but i'm not interesting in addressing your other point.

that's true, Luke. but had WVCY not complained about the content of the play, would the DNR still have pulled the plug?

Let's get the details of this story straight. The DNR has put in the terms of the contract that anyone who uses the site has to do a family-friendly performance. After the agreement was signed, it was fount that the theater company's own literature said that the performance was not for those under the age of 13. Therefore, the company did not sign the agreement in good faith.

End of story.

FBSport - that's quaint. i ask you to explain your comment so perhaps i can better understand why you stated and all you come back with, "it's you". yet you come at me 2x asking to address a point you made that i made clear i have no interest in addressing.

you're not related to Bob McBride, are you?

@luke - that's true as well (though i didn't ask that).

@luke - yes, had no one complained about the play prior to production, i asked if the DNR would've pulled it. and you're assuming that someone would've complained after seeing the show. they may have but we don't know that.

and to say "nice" family and "what their children were exposed to" is assuming that what's in the play is necessarily bad and that children will suffer harmful effects from watching the play. they may - but no one knows that. as i mentioned earlier, if the Jesuits at Marquette U. thought the play was humorous after seeing it performed on their campus, that means NOT ALL Christians find this play offensive.

oh wait! @FBSport - you're the person who commented earlier in this thread, "Put on your silly play for your airhead friends in your garage if you want..."

now really, FBSport, that's not very Christian of you, is that? namecalling and the such? "silly" play? have you even read it?

you know what, on 2nd thought, it's not necessary you explain anything to me. i know you're type and that's all i need to know. you claim Christian bigots are attacking your pursuit of religious freedom while you aim insults at people you don't know. that makes you a hypocrite and we know what Jesus said about hypocrites, don't we?

@luke - i'm not talking about law professors and blacks. i simply said the Jesuits had no problem with the show. you can dissect that all you want.

@luke -i know the Jesuits didn't have an issue with it because the show ran for multiple performances on the Marquette campus. it was not cancelled or booted. not grasping at straws, luke. i understand Vic's group isn't Catholic - or Jesuits. i'm simply saying there are those in the religious community (including all faiths) that didn't take issue with the play.

i also understand you point about the contract.

one last time....OK.

SO SAD!!! Fight this with your art everywhere and anywhere. This is the opposite of American.

bo - glad i caught to the show this afternoon. the crowd - at least half over 50? - love it. as a Catholic, i wasn't the least bit offended. and as i've said about the last show you directed, THE BIBLE was one a) i wish i had written, and b) i wished i was acting in. BRAVO! i PRAY that this production gets another run somewhere.

sort of a side-story on Vic from WVCY. was at the Cedarburg Wine Festival today and of all the people to come up in conversation - Vic Eliason. a friend of mine used to sell radio time for "The Fish", a Christian radio station that appealed to a variety of faiths. the station was sold in 2008 to K-Love, a national Christian broadcasting company. my friend stated that when The Fish entered the radio market in 2001, Vic from WVCY made a HUGE stink about the station and its format, going on and on about how The Fish's particular Christian music format would corrupt children. so apparently Vic even attacks other Christian radio stations, those NOT of the same belief system as HIS. my point? none - just to reiterate i think Vic Eliason's a little different.