Rehearsals for Hand to God are in full swing, and I couldn’t be prouder of this cast and their dedication to the work. Directing this play has been both a thrilling challenge and a deeply rewarding experience. As we move from blocking into refining, I’m watching this production come alive in ways that are both hilarious and heartbreakingly raw.

For those unfamiliar, Hand to God is a wickedly funny and darkly profound play by Robert Askins. It follows a group of teenagers in a Christian puppet ministry, with one boy’s puppet, Tyrone, seemingly possessed by a force beyond his control. The play is a wild ride—bitingly satirical, deeply emotional, and, at times, shockingly irreverent. But at its heart, it’s a story about grief, repression, and the ways we struggle with our own inner demons.

The subject matter is intense, but this cast has risen to the occasion beautifully. They’ve embraced the emotional depth of the piece while also nailing the comedic timing that makes the play so powerful. We’ve had honest conversations about the play’s themes, ensuring that every moment—whether outrageous, tender, or terrifying—feels truthful. It’s been incredible to watch the actors push themselves, finding nuances in their characters that make their performances even more compelling.

We’ve also been having a ton of fun with our awesome puppets, designed and built by the brilliant Gretchen Teague. Every rehearsal new discoveries are made with the physicality of the puppets and it is so funny to watch. You are all in for a real treat seeing the genius of Bailey Diehl, as Jason, puppeteering Tyrone.

Now that we’ve fully blocked the show, our focus is on refining performances, tightening pacing, and elevating the storytelling to its fullest potential. Every night in rehearsal, I see new moments of brilliance—small shifts in delivery, subtle expressions, or bold choices that make the world of the play feel even more alive. The energy in the room is electric, and I know that by opening night, this show is going to be something truly special.

I’m beyond grateful to be working with such a talented and fearless team. Directing Hand to God has reminded me why I love theatre—it’s raw, unpredictable, and, at its best, deeply human. I can’t wait for audiences to experience the journey we’ve been crafting.

Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes updates as we get closer to opening night!

Clayton Avery

Director, Hand to God