Dr. Elaine A. Brown Spencer’s gutsy new book has hit the theatre platform.  What began as an inspirational book to unpack the shame, guilt, and pain experienced within the church pew has been lifted from the pages of her book to center stage. Private Pain in Public Pews played to sold out audiences when it debuted in Toronto last Spring. With absolutely no theatrical training, Dr. Elaine Brown Spencer’s FIRST play is a timeless production that the church AND community have fully embraced.

The play deals with church secrets and the private lives that hold them. It’s no secret the Christian church has been experiencing a period of turbulence. From the Pulpit to the Pew, leaders and laypersons are falling from their pedestals one after the next with scandals of infidelity, double lives and money obsessions. But the real secrets are embedded in the stories of pain behind these scandals. And that’s where this theatrical stage play, Private Pain in Public Pews comes in.

The story focuses on Minister Terry and his wife Lydia who are admired by the congregation. But their picture perfect image is threatened when Terry’s old flame Tia, weasels her way back into his life. Terry tries hard to run from his past but ends up hitting a brick wall. 

“The play addresses what we all know has gone on in the church, but we’re too afraid to talk about,” says Spencer. “It’s dramatic, thought provoking and funny! A bit of humor makes difficult issues much easier to talk about.”

Dr. Elaine Brown Spencer is a professor of Social Work at York University. It was through Divine inspiration along with her background in counseling that ultimately led her to write the book and adapt it into a play. “I was writing down some advice to share with a church member who seemed to be going through some hard times. And when I started writing I literally couldn’t stop. Those jottings translated into a book, which was the basis of the stage play”.

Whether you’re a churchgoer or not, you can relate on so many levels to the issues brought out by Dr. Spencer’s story line. Private Pain in Public Pews will give you a lot to think AND laugh about. It’s a play that crosses all boundaries of traditional gospel theatre. It’s real, honest, and heartfelt. Don’t miss your chance to experience the show that will keep you on the edge of your pew. 

Purchase the DVD of Part 1 Show for $20 at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 416 728-1345.