Niagara University, N.Y. (December 2, 2005) – A play spotlighting the engaging humanity of St. Vincent de Paul is being published by the Niagara University Theatre Press for local, national and international distribution.
Entitled “Vincent in Heaven,” the play was written by Brother Augustine Towey, C.M., director emeritus of Niagara University Theatre.
Saint Vincent de Paul (1581 -1660) is the founder of The Congregation of the Mission, a community of priests and brothers better known as the Vincentians. In the U.S., Vincentians founded and administer Niagara University near Niagara Falls, N.Y.; DePaul University in Chicago, Il.; and St. John’s University in Queens, N.Y.
“Vincent in Heaven” was first produced in 1988 at Niagara University Theatre where it has since been produced several times. This is its first publication.
Far from being solemn and academic, the play has been described by a number of Western New York reviewers as “touching,” “funny,” “very accurate historically,” and especially reflective of the fact that Saint Vincent had a sense of humor.
The French-born saint is seen from his perspective in heaven, where in theatrical fashion he reviews his life, the works he founded, his peers and his colleagues. He also reflects on some of the future moments of the communities he founded. Through each vignette, the play spotlights his charismatic leadership, charitable works and humor.
Figures such as Saint Isaac Joques, Saint Louise de Marrilac and Queen Anne of Austria appear in the play, along with the Vincentian nuns who worked and fought for decent conditions in the leprosarium in Carville, Louisiana. Other compelling characters from the twentieth and twenty-first century as well as the youngest Vincentian are also featured.
Playwright Brother Augustine Towey, C.M., himself a Vincentian, is also the author of twelve other plays and five volumes of poetry. He is also the founder of the theater program at Niagara University.
Copies of the play may be purchased by calling the Niagara University Theatre at 716-286-8480. The pre-publication price per copy is $10 U.S./$12 Canadian, plus $2.50 for shipping and handling. Checks should be made out to “Vincent in Heaven.” MasterCard, Visa and Discover cards are also accepted.
