ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Curt M. Joseph has been an ordained minister since 1975 and currently serves Immanuel Lutheran Church in Waukee, Iowa. He has been writing and performing bible dramas since 1981. Pastor Curt and his wife, Lisa, have four children: Tanya, Leah, Michael, and Brian.
In addition, to these four major "accomplishments," Curt has written hundreds of dramas for use in church worship, including The State vs. the King of the Jews, The Temptations of Jesus, and Crossroads. He also created "Christian Radio Theater," a series of weekly half-hour radio programs reminiscent of old time radio drama. He and Lisa began "Trunk-in-the-Attic Drama Resources" in 1994, publishing dramas and presenting workshops around the country to inspire the use of drama in worship and study.
In addition to his regular pastoral duties, Curt also umpires high school baseball, referees basketball, and teaches philosophy and ethics at the local community college. But his "spare" time is devoted to writing religious dramas! It is his belief that drama will play a major role in the church of the future.
"The Christian church is facing a world in which the majority of the population has few if any ties to the church. People are no longer schooled in Bible stories or matters of faith. Because we are now a visually oriented society, drama lends itself well to educating those who are unfamiliar with the Bible and to those who seek a more meaningful worship experience.
Rather than merely 'rearranging the deck chairs on a sinking ship,' churches of the new millennium must breathe new life into their worship experiences. Congregations of all sizes can create living Bible illustrations through the liberal use of dramatic presentation. Lyle Schaller lists 26 ways for today's churches to update their worship services. First on the list is contemporary music. Second on the list is ... you guessed it... DRAMA!"
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Trunk-in-the-Attic Drama Resources new? Yes! ELCA pastor Curt M. Joseph has been writing and performing Bible dramas since 1981. Following the publication of his first three dramatic series by CSS Publishing House, the enthusiastic response from congregations across the country and their requests for "more material" led Pastor Joseph and his wife, Lisa, to begin their journey into the world of publication. They created Trunk-in-the-Attic Drama Resources in 1994 to assist congregations in developing vital dramatic ministries by providing excellent written resources and exciting drama seminars.
How long are the dramas? With a few exceptions, most of the dramas run 12-15 minutes. Dramas for Lectionary Series run 6-8 minutes and are based on texts from the Revised Common Lectionary for Cycles A, B, and C.
Do the dramas take the place of the sermon? They can. You may wish to reserve time following the drama for the pastor's commentary or for an open discussion among the congregation. The dramas are excellent discussion starters.
Do these dramas contain law and gospel? Yes, because they are based on Bible texts! These dramas are neither morality plays nor Bible camp skits, although they are also appropriate for youth groups.
What ages can take part in the dramas? Although the dramas were originally written for adult worship and study, players of any age can perform as long as they can read!
What about costumes, makeup, and memorization? All of these are optional! The dramas were designed for both small and large congregations. Many smaller congregations do not have budgets which allow for elaborate presentations. These dramas are as effective when performed with scripts in hand, and modern day dress helps to emphasize the timelessness of the gospel message.
Why "Trunk-in-the-Attic"? "Drama," says Pastor Joseph, "brings the word of God to life and gives its full meaning to a visually-oriented generation of people. It adds pizzazz to the worship experience. The world of Bible drama gives us the opportunity to sneak into God's attic, to open his trunk, and to play with his Word!"
TESTIMONIALS!
See what people are saying about our dramas!
. . . Joseph's dramas . . . powerful, provocative, insightful . . . (Tim Weed, professional actor, Scottsdale, AZ)
It was a joy to be with you again and to "see you in action." On behalf of the entire Education Team, I want to express our sincere appreciation for all your contributions to "Reclaiming the Teaching Church." We were proud to name you as a part of our leadership team, and it was fun to see the Christian Ed/ Evangelsim networkers respond to your drama offerings. You did such an outstanding job! (Diane Monroe, ELCA, Chicago, IL)
. . . used your dramas with great success. . . (Dr. Dale Olson)
After reading the summary and sample dialogue, I knew that my search for good material was over! Here, finally, was a play with humor and wit, telling an old story in a new and thoroughly entertaining way . . . Since the church library already has a collection of your plays, I'll know where to look next time. (Gail Gilbert, Worship Director, Nokesville, VA)
In our gym/parish hall, your performance hit "nothing but net!" (Pastor Carl Van Farowe, Des Moines, IA)
I've thoroughly enjoyed reading the plays of Curt M. Joseph. His talent is immense and it is so needed in the curch today. The relevance of drama for our church in this day of mass media and super-highway technology is overwhelming. The main thing lacking is good material - and that of course is where Rev. Joseph comes in. His plays bring Christ to life. Powerful, provocative, and insightful are some of the words which come to mind when I think of the works of Curt Joseph. I have been an actor for 22 years and Mr. Joseph is as talented as any playwright working today. (Tim Weed, professional actor, Scottsdale, AZ)
. . . the critical role you play in the mission and ministry of the church. . . (ELCA Stewardship/Mission Giving Team)
For the past three years members of Trinity Lutheran have enthusiastically responded to the insightful, thought-provoking labor of Curt Joseph. His work has added a great deal to our congregation's understanding of the events of the Passion. I recommend his work to you and the people you serve. (Rev. Philip Bendle III, Pottsville, PA)
. . . continue to hear "rave notices" from your workshop participants. . .
Curt Joseph's dramas are both compelling and instructive. The Gospel comes alive in the dialogue, and the theatrical experience can be meaningful and memorable for participants and audience alike. His dramas could play a wonderful role in any congregation's worship program. (John Bachman, news anchor, Des Moines, Iowa)
. . . . my youth ministry just got a big boost . . .
. . . At Christmas, the Sunday School kids performed your "Babysitter's Christmas" and it was fantastic!!! The kids loved it and REALLY got into it. It was perfect for getting the Christmas story across to them in a fun, new way. The whole congregation said it was the best Christmas play they had ever seen the kids do!!. (Pastor Sara Bechtal, Easton, PA)
. . . monologue was so powerful, there wasn't a dry eye in the room . . .
I was among your workshop attendees at the Orlando event last Novemeber, and I have been just chomping at the bit to work your resources into our program at St. John's. These resources will give my ministry a huge boost during Lent. Thankyou for being such a superb steward of the gifts God has surely bestowed on you. (Rev. Jim Parham)
. . .workshop reviews . . .fun . . .make it look easy for anyone . . .humor and energy . . .
I attended your workshop at Faith Odessey in Chicago, and was very impressed. I found the dramas that we "test played" engaging with the right amount of humor, yet true to the biblical message. I liked the way the dramas can be done with a minimal amount of rehearsal. (Mary Brown, Faith Odessey)
. . . great way to get many people involved in worship . . .
This Lent we used your "The Temptations of Jesus" . . . Especially in our small congregations, we appreciated not having to worry about costumes and scenery. The last scene was particularly moving. Jesus carried the cross down the center aisle. . . the lights were turned down . . . the concluding Wednesday will not soon be forgotten. (Rev. Anneette Crickenberger, Fredonia, ND)
We selected "The Temptations of Jesus" for use in midweek Lenten service this year. I want you to know how well-- how VERY well!-- they were received by our members. Attendance never waned as it normally does during Lent. (Rev. Mark A. Teslik, Woodhull, IL)
On behalf of the Members of Bethany Lutheran (Escanaba, MI) allow me to express our deep gratitude for the inspiring stewardship dramas you shared with us . It is delightful to see the Gospel come alive in dramatic presentations. You are truly masters of this art. Thanks for everything you did to raise the consciousness of stewardship in our midst. (Rev. Dick Hutton)
The evaluations about your dramas and workshops were all very positive: "fun . . . make it look easy, I really enjoyed the humor and energy of the Josephs, excellent, lended itself to this event . . .see great possibilities for the parish . . . easy to listen and participate . . .great way to get many involved . . . easy and possible to do at any church . . ." You are both a gift to the church. (Sonnee Stevenson, Dir. of Lutheran Resource Center, Clear Lake, Iowa)
I want you to know how WONDERFUL the workshop at "Alive in Christ" in Orlando was!!! I loved everything that you did. . . . with your portrayals of Mary and Joseph, I TRULY felt the struggle each one had. And I will NEVER forget Micah 6:6-8 because now I understand Israel's frustration and God's infinite patience. We have purchased many books with vignettes and sketches in them, but none was as Bible-oriented as your material. . . What makes it so appealing is little to no costuming and being able to read the scripts! (Kathie Gerber, Drama Director, Winter Park, FL)
Curt M. Joseph has been an ordained minister since 1975 and currently serves Immanuel Lutheran Church in Waukee, Iowa. He has been writing and performing bible dramas since 1981. Pastor Curt and his wife, Lisa, have four children: Tanya, Leah, Michael, and Brian.
In addition, to these four major "accomplishments," Curt has written hundreds of dramas for use in church worship, including The State vs. the King of the Jews, The Temptations of Jesus, and Crossroads. He also created "Christian Radio Theater," a series of weekly half-hour radio programs reminiscent of old time radio drama. He and Lisa began "Trunk-in-the-Attic Drama Resources" in 1994, publishing dramas and presenting workshops around the country to inspire the use of drama in worship and study.
In addition to his regular pastoral duties, Curt also umpires high school baseball, referees basketball, and teaches philosophy and ethics at the local community college. But his "spare" time is devoted to writing religious dramas! It is his belief that drama will play a major role in the church of the future.
"The Christian church is facing a world in which the majority of the population has few if any ties to the church. People are no longer schooled in Bible stories or matters of faith. Because we are now a visually oriented society, drama lends itself well to educating those who are unfamiliar with the Bible and to those who seek a more meaningful worship experience.
Rather than merely 'rearranging the deck chairs on a sinking ship,' churches of the new millennium must breathe new life into their worship experiences. Congregations of all sizes can create living Bible illustrations through the liberal use of dramatic presentation. Lyle Schaller lists 26 ways for today's churches to update their worship services. First on the list is contemporary music. Second on the list is ... you guessed it... DRAMA!"
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Trunk-in-the-Attic Drama Resources new? Yes! ELCA pastor Curt M. Joseph has been writing and performing Bible dramas since 1981. Following the publication of his first three dramatic series by CSS Publishing House, the enthusiastic response from congregations across the country and their requests for "more material" led Pastor Joseph and his wife, Lisa, to begin their journey into the world of publication. They created Trunk-in-the-Attic Drama Resources in 1994 to assist congregations in developing vital dramatic ministries by providing excellent written resources and exciting drama seminars.
How long are the dramas? With a few exceptions, most of the dramas run 12-15 minutes. Dramas for Lectionary Series run 6-8 minutes and are based on texts from the Revised Common Lectionary for Cycles A, B, and C.
Do the dramas take the place of the sermon? They can. You may wish to reserve time following the drama for the pastor's commentary or for an open discussion among the congregation. The dramas are excellent discussion starters.
Do these dramas contain law and gospel? Yes, because they are based on Bible texts! These dramas are neither morality plays nor Bible camp skits, although they are also appropriate for youth groups.
What ages can take part in the dramas? Although the dramas were originally written for adult worship and study, players of any age can perform as long as they can read!
What about costumes, makeup, and memorization? All of these are optional! The dramas were designed for both small and large congregations. Many smaller congregations do not have budgets which allow for elaborate presentations. These dramas are as effective when performed with scripts in hand, and modern day dress helps to emphasize the timelessness of the gospel message.
Why "Trunk-in-the-Attic"? "Drama," says Pastor Joseph, "brings the word of God to life and gives its full meaning to a visually-oriented generation of people. It adds pizzazz to the worship experience. The world of Bible drama gives us the opportunity to sneak into God's attic, to open his trunk, and to play with his Word!"
TESTIMONIALS!
See what people are saying about our dramas!
. . . Joseph's dramas . . . powerful, provocative, insightful . . . (Tim Weed, professional actor, Scottsdale, AZ)
It was a joy to be with you again and to "see you in action." On behalf of the entire Education Team, I want to express our sincere appreciation for all your contributions to "Reclaiming the Teaching Church." We were proud to name you as a part of our leadership team, and it was fun to see the Christian Ed/ Evangelsim networkers respond to your drama offerings. You did such an outstanding job! (Diane Monroe, ELCA, Chicago, IL)
. . . used your dramas with great success. . . (Dr. Dale Olson)
After reading the summary and sample dialogue, I knew that my search for good material was over! Here, finally, was a play with humor and wit, telling an old story in a new and thoroughly entertaining way . . . Since the church library already has a collection of your plays, I'll know where to look next time. (Gail Gilbert, Worship Director, Nokesville, VA)
In our gym/parish hall, your performance hit "nothing but net!" (Pastor Carl Van Farowe, Des Moines, IA)
I've thoroughly enjoyed reading the plays of Curt M. Joseph. His talent is immense and it is so needed in the curch today. The relevance of drama for our church in this day of mass media and super-highway technology is overwhelming. The main thing lacking is good material - and that of course is where Rev. Joseph comes in. His plays bring Christ to life. Powerful, provocative, and insightful are some of the words which come to mind when I think of the works of Curt Joseph. I have been an actor for 22 years and Mr. Joseph is as talented as any playwright working today. (Tim Weed, professional actor, Scottsdale, AZ)
. . . the critical role you play in the mission and ministry of the church. . . (ELCA Stewardship/Mission Giving Team)
For the past three years members of Trinity Lutheran have enthusiastically responded to the insightful, thought-provoking labor of Curt Joseph. His work has added a great deal to our congregation's understanding of the events of the Passion. I recommend his work to you and the people you serve. (Rev. Philip Bendle III, Pottsville, PA)
. . . continue to hear "rave notices" from your workshop participants. . .
Curt Joseph's dramas are both compelling and instructive. The Gospel comes alive in the dialogue, and the theatrical experience can be meaningful and memorable for participants and audience alike. His dramas could play a wonderful role in any congregation's worship program. (John Bachman, news anchor, Des Moines, Iowa)
. . . . my youth ministry just got a big boost . . .
. . . At Christmas, the Sunday School kids performed your "Babysitter's Christmas" and it was fantastic!!! The kids loved it and REALLY got into it. It was perfect for getting the Christmas story across to them in a fun, new way. The whole congregation said it was the best Christmas play they had ever seen the kids do!!. (Pastor Sara Bechtal, Easton, PA)
. . . monologue was so powerful, there wasn't a dry eye in the room . . .
I was among your workshop attendees at the Orlando event last Novemeber, and I have been just chomping at the bit to work your resources into our program at St. John's. These resources will give my ministry a huge boost during Lent. Thankyou for being such a superb steward of the gifts God has surely bestowed on you. (Rev. Jim Parham)
. . .workshop reviews . . .fun . . .make it look easy for anyone . . .humor and energy . . .
I attended your workshop at Faith Odessey in Chicago, and was very impressed. I found the dramas that we "test played" engaging with the right amount of humor, yet true to the biblical message. I liked the way the dramas can be done with a minimal amount of rehearsal. (Mary Brown, Faith Odessey)
. . . great way to get many people involved in worship . . .
This Lent we used your "The Temptations of Jesus" . . . Especially in our small congregations, we appreciated not having to worry about costumes and scenery. The last scene was particularly moving. Jesus carried the cross down the center aisle. . . the lights were turned down . . . the concluding Wednesday will not soon be forgotten. (Rev. Anneette Crickenberger, Fredonia, ND)
We selected "The Temptations of Jesus" for use in midweek Lenten service this year. I want you to know how well-- how VERY well!-- they were received by our members. Attendance never waned as it normally does during Lent. (Rev. Mark A. Teslik, Woodhull, IL)
On behalf of the Members of Bethany Lutheran (Escanaba, MI) allow me to express our deep gratitude for the inspiring stewardship dramas you shared with us . It is delightful to see the Gospel come alive in dramatic presentations. You are truly masters of this art. Thanks for everything you did to raise the consciousness of stewardship in our midst. (Rev. Dick Hutton)
The evaluations about your dramas and workshops were all very positive: "fun . . . make it look easy, I really enjoyed the humor and energy of the Josephs, excellent, lended itself to this event . . .see great possibilities for the parish . . . easy to listen and participate . . .great way to get many involved . . . easy and possible to do at any church . . ." You are both a gift to the church. (Sonnee Stevenson, Dir. of Lutheran Resource Center, Clear Lake, Iowa)
I want you to know how WONDERFUL the workshop at "Alive in Christ" in Orlando was!!! I loved everything that you did. . . . with your portrayals of Mary and Joseph, I TRULY felt the struggle each one had. And I will NEVER forget Micah 6:6-8 because now I understand Israel's frustration and God's infinite patience. We have purchased many books with vignettes and sketches in them, but none was as Bible-oriented as your material. . . What makes it so appealing is little to no costuming and being able to read the scripts! (Kathie Gerber, Drama Director, Winter Park, FL)
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