I came to this revelation at Self-Service: A Resurrection Story, starring Shesus (Loose Baker) and the merciful Sistas, nuns Mary Berry and Pauline Hollywood (twins Danielle and Lauren Meehan). It turned out to be an interesting evening: a woman dressed as Jesus, with the full beard and crown of thorns, lip-synching along to a range of well-known tracks and telling her story through the samples of music, accompanying visuals, songs and readings, some prizes and lots of energetic dancing.
There was an order of service, although not one that would go down well in the C of E, with an opening address, a Ser(wo)man, a sing-along Her-Hymn based on We are Family, and even a Mass with communion. With the giggling participation of a "willing" audience member, our penetrating gospel reading was taken from Fifty Shades of Grey. We died and experienced semi, full or multiple resurrections, and we were reborn: I got up from the floor with my chakras still intact. Actually it was a lot of fun, in the best traditions of an Edinburgh Fringe show. There was lots of audience involvement (why not sit on the front row?) and much laughter. And there was a dead fish.
We were squeezed into a small part of the performance area upstairs at the Jericho Tavern which was done up loosely as a church with pews and candles. We came prepared to be amused and to join in, and enjoyed it all, especially as we were helped along by having taken in a few units before and during this second coming.
It's quite offensive and yet very amusing. On the way home, I reflected on how tolerant Christianity is. Just try doing this with certain other religions and see what happens!
Self Service: A Revelation Story was at the Jericho Tavern for one evening only. It continues on its successful tour of the country. Be sure to watch out for their third coming in this area.