A progressive priest, a conservative nun and allegations concerning a young altar boy set the stage for “Doubt: A Parable,” the Pulitzer Prize winning play that will run May 22 to 26 at The Merced Multicultural Arts Center.  Produced by Playhouse Merced, “Doubt” brings together four talented local actors and one of the best plays of the 21st century for a powerful theatrical experience that explores uncertainty, belief, and the power of accusation. 

“Doubt” follows the story of Father Flynn (played by Paul Wegner), a popular priest in The Bronx in 1964. When Sister Aloysius, the severe nun who serves as the principal of the St. Nicholas School (played by Bernadette Mello), learns that Father Flynn has been meeting privately with a young altar boy, she accuses him of sexual misconduct. As explanations and threats follow the accusations, the young and impressionable Sister James (Mikaela Heisler) finds herself caught between two powerful and personalities, unsure who or what to believe. As Aloysius relentlessly pushes for Father Flynn’s removal and pressures the student’s mother (Ileisha Sanders), it becomes increasingly clear that the truth is complicated and that the only thing certain is doubt.

Written by John Patrick Shanley, “Doubt: A Parable” won both the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for Best Play when it premiered in 2004. The show had a multi-year run on Broadway and an Oscar nominated film adaptation.

“Doubt: A Parable” will be performed at The Merced Multicultural Arts Center, 645 W. Main St. in Merced, at 7:30 p.m. May 22, 23, 24, 25 and 2 p.m. May 26. Tickets are available through the Playhouse Merced box office, by calling (209)725-8587, or at playhousemerced.com.  “Doubt” is recommended for teens and older.