JOSEPH W. TKACH
PASTOR GENERAL

December 1987

Dear Friend:

Thank you for your recent inquiry in which you asked for guidelines concerning studying stage acting and drama.

As you no doubt realize, it is not the thing which is wrong, but the misuse of a thing which makes it unsuitable. This would apply to stage acting and drama. Acting, as such, is not wrong. It depends upon what is being acted out and whether or not it is beneficial and uplifting. The students at Ambassador College occasionally perform skits and musicals. A drama class may teach certain public speaking skills which could be beneficial.

Practically speaking, however, morality is rarely a consideration in acting and drama classes. From time to time, those studying acting would likely be asked to portray thieves, murderers, and the like, and to use foul language. They might also be instructed to act out adulterous or licentious situations. A person should also consider the fact that performances of plays often conflict with the Sabbath.

Because of these drawbacks, we encourage people to carefully weigh all the relevant factors when making their decision about taking drama and acting classes.

Whenever we can be of additional service, we hope you will let us know.

PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT