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Pepperdine University Fine Arts Division Presented As It Is In Heaven 

The Pepperdine University Fine Arts Division Theatre Department presented As It Is In Heaven by Arlene Hutton Oct. 10 to 14 at the Malibu campus’ Helen E. Lindhurst Theatre.  

Set in 1838, Arlene Hutton’s play explores issues of faith through the eyes of nine women in the Shaker village of Pleasant Hill, Kentucky. When three newcomers to the community begin experiencing visions, the older members, who have received none, question their own devotion to the Way.

The play celebrates the music and dance traditions of the Society of Believers and is punctuated by Shaker hymns sung a cappella. The play’s staging reflects both the simplicity of the Shaker lifestyle and the expressivity of Hutton’s compelling, non-linear narrative.

As It Is In Heaven was originally produced in New York City in September 2001 by the Journey Company and the 78th Street Theatre Lab.

Pepperdine’s presentation is part of the University’s Mary Pickford–Stotsenberg Performances Series.