Comedy team to lighten up Lent

March 12, 2007|by JANET HEIM

The season of Lent is usually a solemn time of reflection for many churches.

One local church sees it as a time for community outreach and is hoping to share the message of the Bible in a different way.

The Manor Church of the Brethren near Boonsboro has invited Ted & Lee, a Mennonite comedy team, to perform at Boonsboro High School on Sunday, March 18.

Pastor Joy Zepp said she has seen the duo perform at the Brethren Church's national youth conferences in Colorado and, most recently, at a district conference of the Brethren church. It was there that she decided to talk to her church board about having the comedy team come to Boonsboro.

"They provide the Gospel in such a unique way. It was a shame only the youth who go to Colorado get to see them," Zepp said.

Zepp said the board thought it was "a wonderful idea" and arrangements were made for Ted & Lee to bring their ecumenical Christian comedy to the area.

Ted & Lee, who have been performing together for almost 20 years, know they have several stereotypes to dispel. Much of the Mennonite comedy duo's repertoire is based on biblical stories, and they realize the public might shy away from a show featuring Christian drama or comedians.

While Mennonite comedy might seem like an odd concept, Ted & Lee believe laughing is "one of the most spiritual things you can do," according to their Web site.

Both men and their families live in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, according to their Web site, www.tedandlee.com.

They travel extensively, but this is believed to be the first time they have performed in this area.

Zepp would love to fill the more than 300-seat auditorium at Boonsboro High School.

"When you see them, they just come off as two regular guys," Zepp said.

The show will be at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $10 for older youths and adults, and $5 for ages 5 and younger. For advance tickets or more information, call 301-582-3773 or 301-791-2310.

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