The play couldn't be more timely, with more than 20 regional U.S. productions this season. In 2017, it was nominated Best New Play by the Off Broadway Alliance. *INTERPLAY JEWISH THEATRE proudly presents two staged readings of* *CHURCH & STATE, by Jason Odell Williams * *MONDAY, JUNE 25 & TUESDAY, JUNE 26, both at 7 p.m., * *Hosted by Dobama Theatre,* 2340 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights. *Directed by Fred Sternfeld and featuring: Chris Bezub, John Busser, Klara Hricik, Ursula Cataan* and Kristin Netzband* *(*Appears courtesy of AEA) Sound by *Stan Kozak*, with *Sarah Rounds.* The story: On the eve of his bid for re-election, a North Carolina senator finds his off-the-cuff remark to a blogger a potential career ender. In the aftermath of a shooting at his children's school, he questioned out loud his own faith in God. With dueling advice from his devoutly Christian wife and his liberal Jewish campaign manager, he must minimize the danger to his career and his soul. *Church & State, *"A Serious Comedy, Honest to God," is an explosive look at our broken political system. Talkbacks follow both performances. On Monday evening, actor Matt Gittins will address issues of gun safety raised in the play, as well as share his own experience during and after the 2012 shootings at Chardon High School. He may be joined by his brother Drew, who has become a leader in the fight for gun control. On Tuesday evening, Rev. Kristine Eggert and her husband, David, co-founders of God Before Guns, will talk about their campaign to end gun violence. Both sessions will look at ways to lobby effectively for change, including updates on related legislation pending in Ohio. Monday night's performance is nearly full, but do join the waiting list, if you prefer that performance. We will call when we can confirm your request. Tuesday night still has seats available. There is no charge for admission to these readings, but donations are accepted. PLEASE RESERVE SEATS at interplayjewishtheatre@gmail.com; or by calling (216) 393-PLAY. Specify number of seats you'd like, and which performance. Faye Sholiton, Founding Artistic Dir. Interplay Jewish Theatre, LLC