This is only the second production of the Kansas City Rep’s 2007-08 Season and already they've raised the bar. Doubt, A Parable, by John Patrick Shanley, is an intensely riveting play that examines the controversial subject of morality within the Catholic Church.

Set in 1964, at St. Nicholas (a Catholic school) in the Bronx, Doubt follows Sister Aloysius (played by Laurie Kennedy) as she wrestles with her suspicion that a priest may have sexually abuse the first black student ever admitted to the school.

Having been married in the 1940’s, Sister Aloysius joined the convent following her husband’s death in World War II. Her life experiences have left her more cynical and less trusting of the world.

"It is important that Doubt be seen as being in the sixties," said director Stephen Rothman. "I believe Shanley picked 1964 because the seeds of the upcoming social revolution were in place. As a culture we were beginning to doubt everything."

It was a time of upheaval. The Beatles made their first live appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show. Boxer Cassius Clay won the World Championship from Sonny Liston. President Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act into law. Three young "Freedom Riders" were murdered in Philadelphia, Mississippi, spawning nationwide protests.

"Many priests were marching in Selma, Alabama and elsewhere, putting their lives on the line," said Rothman. "When the question comes up of whether or not Father Flynn (played by Eric Thal) inappropriately touched the young boy, our doubts are influenced by the story we are seeing or by the current headlines."

Sister James (played by Gardner Reed) is a young, optimistic and caring nun caught in the middle of this mayhem. She is forced to juggle her doubts and beliefs as she is pressured by both sides to take a stand. As it rips at her, you watch her go through a metamorphosis. You want to reach out and help her tormented soul.

Mrs. Muller (played by Gina Daniels) has to make a decision regarding her son’s future that will surprise even the most liberal. When confronted with the possibility of her son’s abuse, she says that she is willing to turn a blind eye if it will enable him to graduate from a good school and pursue a better life. Since this is set in the 60’s, it makes you wonder what kind of mother would allow this to happen to her son, especially during that time.

All four cast members are making their Kansas City Repertory Theatre debut, and each is outstanding. The chemistry between them is undeniable. Rothman's direction is amazing, extracting every essence of character to create an aroma of tension that is powerfully engaging. And the set design (David Potts), lighting (James Moody) and costumes (David Murin) add to the believability of the story.

The production runs until November 11 at the Spencer Center in the UMKC Performing Arts Center, 4949 Cherry Street. Prices are $12-$45, with youth tickets (18 years or younger) only $15. For additional information contact the Rep Box Office at 816-235-2700, or visit www.kcrep.org.

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