It will make you smile, it will make you frown and it certainly will make you think.

In a marriage of disciplines, Pentecost combines Art History with both Western and Non-Western History, Political Science, Development Economies and Anthropology to name a few. The play, at a basic level, addresses the mixing of Western and Non-Western cultures, both in the world of Eastern European politics and a hostage situation.

Set in 1994, this is widely regarded as the first and best response to the war and resulting break-up of the former Yugoslavia. The title is in reference the biblical event of the Pentecost (when Jesus gave the nations of the world common ground by teaching his Disciples the languages of the world in order to spread the gospel.) This play is not about world religions, but world cultures.

In Pentecost, language exists as a significant barrier to open communication. The characters often have to translate for one another, and portions of the script are understandable only through action and context. The Pentecost for this group of characters is finding common ground through the stories and songs of their different cultures.

This play also has a special significance for the Macalester community, as the play explores the oft' repeated theme of Western imperialism and its effect on the rest of the world. Further, the work speaks directly to a neauveau White Man's Burden that wealthy, developed countries feel toward the rest of the world. What are the effects of Western intervention? How do single voices get heard in our world today? What do they have to say? These are questions that the Macalester community frequently asks, although rarely with such artfulness.

The playwright, David Edgar, does not shy away from current events in his prose, and the impassioned, political speeches feel particularly confrontational.

Pentecost is a play that is not often performed, and thus it would be wise to take this opportunity to experience true, contemporary political theatre.

Pentecost, a play by David Edgar, this Friday and Saturday in the theatre. With Mac ID: Tickets are $2 for reserved seats, or FREE if you rush the show. November 15,16 at 7:30 Box Office: 696-6359