After learning that we dress up as old-timey revivalists for the Church Basement Roadshow, some have supposed that we are making fun of American religious tradition. This could not be further from the truth…
After learning that we dress up as old-timey revivalists for the Church Basement Roadshow, some have supposed that we are making fun of American religious tradition. This could not be further from the truth. Many who have attended the our Rollin’ Gospel Revival have been impressed with its surprising sincerity. On this tour we are discovering how well irony plays to an audience that is skeptical about direct marketing and fatigued by overly wrought manipulative messaging. At our shows we invite the audience to shout, “Hallelujah” “Glory” or “Amen” along with our 1908 characters preaching and singing revival songs in wool frock suits. People who might never otherwise be so demonstrative in their religious affections are remarkably and genuinely moved by our mock revival. Perhaps irony and camp are the means by which the Spirit touches a generation of hipsters– and in some strange way kitsch camp becomes real revival.
posted July 16, 2008 at 12:49 pm
No way, we were at the Kansas City show and loved it! You 3 have really put together a great tour.
By the way, I never got a chance to chat with Tony after the show, but I have to thank you for the book. My husband and I finished reading it last week and had our bible and the dictionary right next to us the whole time. It challenged our thinking and increased our vocabulary! What a great combination!
posted July 16, 2008 at 9:22 pm
Never thought for a moment you were making fun of the era you chose for the shows’ setting. Great job, friend.
posted July 16, 2008 at 9:48 pm
I am dismayed that I missed the friendly mutton chops when they were in my town! Carry on, you three kings of kitsch!
posted July 17, 2008 at 9:50 am
We attended your Tulsa presentation, had a blast and were blessed! No thoughts that you were in any way demeaning the rich tradition of tent revivals; it was clear that you have a heart for the Lord and are doing your best to spread the Emergent message. Keep on keepin on!