By Gordon Durich
Thousand Oaks, CA (The Hollywood Times) 2/25/25 – The “greatest story of all time” was back on the boards, in an exciting new way, courtesy of “The Thorn” when it played for two packed performances at the Fred Kavli Theatre, Thousand Oaks. Dubbed “Cirque du Jesus,” this immersive epic production telling the story of God’s love for the world and the spiritual battle for all humanity is spectacular. This newest entry in theatrical mega shows, “The Thorn” is a mixture of music, drama, humor, dance, stunts and visual effects. As opposed to usual theatre performances, this is an experience.
What other shows apart from circuses include aerial acts? Perhaps the performer Pink in concert.
Jubilant and powerful, “The Thorn” is inspiring and succeeds in bringing a deeper understanding of the Biblical story. Fans of “Jesus Christ Superstar” and “Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat” will enjoy this new take on spiritual storytelling. The principles and lessons – especially delivery of the message of love. Bringing me and many others to tears.
This is rare entertainment, both emotionally illuminating and highly original.
Not connected to any actual church per se or any religious denomination, “The Thorn” was created by a youth pastor, John Bolin, to convey to youth the love of the Lord. Jesus Christ and the reality of the spiritual battle. It addresses destiny, choices and identity.
Jim Miles stole the show as John The Beloved, who is “The Thorn’s narrator. He describes himself as a storyteller, rather than as an actor. He does both with conviction, humor and interaction with the audience whom he called “Beloved.” A national and international tour team on stage work hard together to make this a sensation. A small army behind-the-scenes do a magical job visually and audio-wise. It would have been nice to see some on stage singing, but the music is lush and serves as a soundtrack for the action.
Between the live action, the storylines and the stirring music, “The Thorn” is a show for the times. It is also being performed in Spanish at select venues and runs until late April for this current US tour. According to the show’s representative, it will be back on the board’s autumn 2025.
