‘Bible Stories’ Offers a Humanist Perspective on Faith

Title notwithstanding, “Bible Stories” at the Celebration Theatre is neither a literal retelling nor an adaptation of tales from the Scriptures. Nevertheless, spiritual themes inform and elevate this anthology of 12 secular monologues scripted by Larry Dean Harris.

A refreshingly old-fashioned quest for traditional humanist values links the segments, which are each performed by a different actor. Quality varies, but at their best these soul-searching ruminations prove poignant and thought-provoking. Among the highlights are a snobby socialite (Carol Shannon), stranded in a bad neighborhood, who receives unexpected charity from a good Samaritan she previously would have despised.

From his front-porch rocking chair, an old black man (Damon Chandler) reflects on the bitter history of race relations and offers a hopeful reason to keep on smiling. Patricia Place is an amusing busybody who mercilessly foists herself on an unsuspecting victim in a surprise visit. Live-wire Andrea Kim Walker opens the second half as a theater patron in search of the woman with whom she’s accidentally exchanged purses; examining the stranger’s possession draws her unexpectedly deeper into her own life. Marian Woods shines as a discontented housewife at her final confessional, and Amy Loftus impresses as an unexpectedly introspective prostitute.

Other segments suffer at times from overly mannered delivery or heavy-handed moralizing--a concluding chat with the Almighty (Gary Bullock) is particularly overreaching. T. Jay O’Brien’s staging moves at a brisk clip, but the inherent artifice of the monologue format eventually makes itself felt.

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* “Bible Stories,” Celebration Theatre, 7051B Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood. Saturdays,8 p.m.; Sundays, 3 p.m. Ends Sept. 12. $15. (323) 666-4638. Running time: 2 hours, 10 minutes.