The Manatee Players’ production of John Pielmeier’s Tony Award-winning drama, Agnes of God, opens tonight in the Bradenton Kiwanis Theater. When a child in the convent dies, one young nun is accused of murder, setting into motion a battle for dominance between her Mother Superior and the psychiatrist assigned to her case.

“It’s always been very close to my heart - the message, the questions that the play brings up regarding science versus faith,” said Candace Artim, director of Agnes. The play’s deft handling of heavy subject matter is its strength, according to Artim, who credits the play for its measured approach. It’s exploratory, but not antagonistic. Not dictating, but starting a conversation. “Thoughtful and thought-provoking,” said Artim. “It does continue to open questions, but that’s the point. That’s what this play generates for the audience.”

And Kiwanis Theater regulars will notice a marked change in this latest production, as it will be the first to be presented ‘in the round.’ At Artim’s request, the traditional proscenium approach has been foregone in lieu of this more immersive presentation, allowing Artim and her team to utilize lighting and other technical elements in different ways to capitalize on the minimalist set design.

“I wanted to open it up and do something different,” said Artim.

The Manatee Players' Agnes of God, starring Amy Woerner, Alice Cotman and Lynne Doyle and directed by Candace Artim, opens today at the Bradenton Kiwanis Theater at the Manatee Performing Arts Center at 7:30pm.