TBN to Air First-Ever Prime Time Christian Drama
Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN), the largest Christian television network in the world, will be broadcasting a television original - the first ever prime time Christian drama series.
“7th Street Theater,” which airs Mar. 3 at 8 p.m., will be a weekly half-hour show with 24 episodes already produced for its first season.
The network and producers are excited about the prospect, noting the lack of Christian influence when it comes to prime time dramas.
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"I want to change the face of television," said Dave Christiano, producer of new series, in a press release. "For decades, the major networks have had dramatic programs in prime time and the day has finally come for a distinctly Christian drama series to be there as well.”
The series revolves around the story of five Christian actors who perform a weekly stage show for their community. The theatre in which they act was purchased with the intention of sharing the Christian message with other people, and their weekly shows, which include one matinee and two evening Saturday performances, reflect that.
"There has never been a weekly drama series with continuing Christian characters for people to watch," added Christiano in the statement. "I hope that people will tune in and give us a chance to see what we've tried to do with this show."
The cast - which includes Josh Gaffga, Hugh McLean, Johanna Jowett, Stacey J. Aswad, Shane Willimon, and Jack Kelly - is widely unknown. The director is not worried about this, however.
He noted: “These people may not be widely known among viewers at this time, but after people watch a few episodes and get to know them, I think they'll really appreciate the talent and personalities of each. This is a really special cast."
The crew is optimistic about the show’s reach, because TBN has access to 92 percent of American homes.
TBN also airs sermons from the nation’s greatest preachers, many faith-based programming, as well as hit shows including the “700 Club” hosted by Pat Robertson and “Gifted,” often seen as the Christian “American Idol.”
More information about the new prime time drama series at the 7th Street Theater website, www.7thStreetTheater.com.
