An unusual musical project takes another step forward this Saturday, June 25th, at Divine Treasures Book Store in Des Moines, Iowa.
The Pope of the People, the John Paul II Musical, will be released in CD and DVD formats at a party to take place from 10 AM to 2 PM, CDT. Some of JPII’s favorite Polish pastries will be served to add to the festivities!
The Pope of the People is unusual because it is a Catholic musical, two words you don’t often hear in the same sentence.
Written by Tom Quiner, the musical covers the dramatic sweep of JPII’s first decade as Pope, including his trip to Poland in 1979, his support of Lech Walesa and the Solidarity Labor Union, and the eventual collapse of communism.
His historic mass at Living History Farms in Urbandale, Iowa, is included in the drama, as is his miraculous escape from death at the hands of a would-be assassin, and his forgiveness of the gunman.
The Pope of the People was performed in seven Catholic churches in April as part of the Centennial Celebration of the Catholic Diocese of Des Moines. It will return in October for a second run.
This original cast recording of the CD includes a twelve-page booklet with lyrics and photos from previous performances. The DVD was shot at the April 3rd performance at All Saints Catholic Church.
Quiner composed the musical because he believes that the late Pope John Paul II’s legacy in regard to Poland is worth telling time and time again. The Pope of the People – which features 15 songs as well as the spoken word – tells that story in a highly entertaining and dramatic way. It is Quiner’s greatest hope that word will spread about this musical to local churches and theater groups who want to perform a show that combines artistry with faith, in a heartfelt, entertaining, and memorable way.
Divine Treasures is located at 5701 Hickman Road in Des Moines, Iowa.
More information about the musical can be found at the official website: www.thePopeofthePeople.com or by contacting Tom Quiner @ 1-800-810-4152.