THE SYNOPSIS

These are the opening lyrics to a show that is looking for answers in an arena that for many has become a stale-mate.  

TIES that BIND is a story of a minister at crossroads with practicing his faith in a culturally-diverse church. When the pastor announces his upcoming sermon on LGBTQ issues the ripple effect is felt through the congregation including his daughter.  As several come to terms with their LGBTQ identity the backlash from other congregants forces the pastor into a life-changing decision:  Will he support his child or jeopardize his career?  Either decision will deeply challenge the meaning of truth. 

THE STORY BEHIND THE STORY

For millennia, people expressing different forms of sexuality outside heterosexuality have been ostracized, harmed, or killed due to conflicting religious and societal norms.  Sadly, the Church has perpetuated fears, biases, and exclusion rather than the provision of a safe harbor for the LGBTQ+ community. 

The Church is comprised of many individuals whose mindsets and actions are contrary to the heart of Christ.  Throughout history, Christians have evolved to embrace current societal norms like interracial marriage; the Church must further evolve to support the rich diversity of humanity represented with the LGBTQ+ community.  To be loved for who we are and who we were created to be is the responsibility of the Church in reflecting God’s love and compassion. 

The Church can no longer ignore its LGBTQ+ members as an equally valid representation of societal norms.  Nor can it blindly use the Bible to justify ostracizing and forcing LGBTQ+ members to hide in the closet.  These antiquated mindsets must be confronted and challenged; actions much change to reflect the love and acceptance of Christ’s love by taking a stand within their place of faith. 

TELLING THE STORY

"I was employed at a very successful church as the Minister of Music and Arts when a tragic situation was brought before the large staff meeting to help solve.  A young man had moved into town and wanted to join the strong theatre department and get involved in one of our productions.  After a time of conviction at one of the services he confessed that he was gay and living with his boyfriend.  This sparked a series of conversations with the staff and board of the church and it was determined that the church would draft a legal document in order to protect itself from the potential lawsuits of the LGBTQ+ community coming against the church."

"If that wasn't disheartening enough it was decided that every member of the church that was involved in some kind of music, theatre, or active ministry of any kind was to sign the proposed document and adhere to the conservative teachings of the church.  In plain language, to not participate in any LGBTQ+ relationships.  Something was desperately wrong.  Instead of allowing God to speak to people, we were dictating our values on the lives of people and forcing anyone in the closet or out of the closet to become extremely convicted and remain in the closet or leave the church.  It was at that point that I felt I could no longer support this church and eventually left the church coming out as a gay man to my family and community."  

"This tragic scenario is played out time and again across our houses of faith with devastating consequences.  We can either allow it to happen or we can stop the continued pain of people as they work through their own salvation.  That's why I decided to write this musical.  To help create a voice for so many who are going  through or have gone through similar experiences of faith and sexuality."

Stephen Munshaw is an Artistic Director and has written several musicals with over 30 years of supervisory, production, presentation, and leadership experience in live theatrical and church settings. He is the founding Artistic Director at the Elsinore Theatre in Salem, OR, the founding director of the Center for the Arts on the Queensway, one of the key founders of Fire Exit Theatre Company, and has several awards to his credit.  www.StephenMunshaw.com