“Oh my God” introduces us to Ella, a middle-aged psychologist and single mother of an autistic child, who receives a mysterious phone call from a new patient who is desperate for a therapy session. The patient will only give her the first letter of his name, so Ella concludes he must be a high-ranking security official and agrees to see him immediately.
But when the patient arrives and starts talking, it becomes clear he is none other than God.
What help would God ever need?
God is initially resistant to therapy, and Ella is reluctant to take on the strange patient. Alternately fascinated and exasperated with each other, both therapist and patient threaten to end the session early at various points. But there is palpable spiritual chemistry between them that could be considered faith. Indeed, the play can be experienced as an exploration of contemporary spirituality
I was captivated by the actor playing God. The actor was able to convey what ge was feeling in a tangible way that resonated with the audience. The way he played God was very reminiscent of Marlon Brando wearing his signature black tuxedo. The actress who played Ella, did an amazing job of showing patience and empathy with God as she does with her autistic son.
We learn a valuable lesson with this play is that at the end of the day we all need love…even God.
Director Saul Elkin did a wonderful job of channeling the playwriter Anat Gov’s intended theme of “a warm family and happy ending”.
As I looked back at the stage before leaving, I felt in my heart that our prayers to God is not a one-way street.
Tickets are still available for the last week of the performance, at http://www.Jewishrepertorytheatre.com or ticket office 650-7626.
On a final note thank you Jewish Repertory Theatre for a wonderful production.
Nathan Sull Publisher