A body is discovered in an abandoned farmhouse, revealing the harrowing journal of a young gay man who, during the height of the AIDS crisis, was cast out by his family and endured a brutal ex-gay conversion program, chronicling his desperate search for acceptance and the devastating impact of societal prejudice.

SYNOPSIS:

"Nearer to God" delves into the harrowing journey of a young gay man in rural Pennsylvania during the height of the AIDS crisis in the late 1980s. Cast out by his fundamentalist family and forced into a brutal ex-gay conversion program by his homophobic sister, he endures relentless psychological and emotional trauma. Amidst this turmoil, he receives the devastating news of his HIV-positive status, exacerbating his isolation.

Seeking refuge in an abandoned farmhouse, he chronicles his despair and fleeting moments of hope in haunting journal entries. The play unflinchingly portrays the devastating consequences of hate and intolerance, culminating in the discovery of his body, leaving a powerful legacy through his words.

The protagonist’s journey is marked by profound emotional and physical hardship, reflecting the harsh reality of being ostracized for his sexuality. Through his journal entries, the audience witnesses his struggles with family rejection, societal prejudice, and the cruelty of an ex-gay conversion program. Intertwined with moments of hope and resilience, the play highlights his indomitable spirit and search for inner peace amidst overwhelming adversity.

"Nearer to God" serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of hate and bigotry, calling for empathy, compassion, and understanding. It urges the audience to reflect on the tragic legacy of the AIDS crisis and the enduring impact of discrimination and rejection on those who long for acceptance.