Available Scripts

To purchase performance rights for any of Mr. Alway's plays or musicals, please contact him directly at joealway@MCAstl.org.

Faith, Love, and Redemption:
The Art of writer Joe Elvis Alway

Joe's Overarching Message:

Across his works, Joe's message emphasizes the power of faith to inspire transformation and healing, the value of community and family, and the enduring impact of grace and redemption. Whether through the lens of biblical narratives (Witness, Lazarus, Friend of Jesus), modern faith-centered struggles (Time to Surrender, Open House on Christmas Eve), or uplifting humor and heartwarming moments (Mama Kicky's Mixx-Nutz Christmas Celebration), Joe's writing consistently conveys that hope, love, and forgiveness are the keys to overcoming life's greatest challenges.

Key Characteristics of His Writing:

Faith-Centered Themes: Joe weaves stories that reflect a deep spiritual grounding, exploring humanity's encounter with the divine.
Dynamic Characters: His characters are vibrant, multi-dimensional, and relatable, often portraying personal struggles that lead to profound transformations.
Blending Humor and Emotion: Plays like Mama Kicky Fakes Her Funeral showcase Joe's ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments, creating a range of emotional experiences for his audience.
Universal Messages: His works resonate with audiences of all backgrounds, emphasizing timeless values like love, forgiveness, and unity.
Musical Storytelling: By incorporating music into productions like Witness (The Musical) and Lazarus, Joe heightens the emotional and spiritual depth of his narratives.

Joe Elvis Alway's body of work reflects his passion for faith, storytelling, and human connection, offering audiences a chance to reflect, laugh, and be inspired to embrace the transformative power of love and redemption.

All plays, musicals, and original content featured on this website are protected by copyright law. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, performance, or adaptation of any material without prior written permission from the creator is strictly prohibited.

For inquiries about licensing or performance rights, please contact [joeelvisab@gmail.com].

With 33 years as a Theater Arts educator and 20 years in ministry, I have served as an assistant pastor and senior pastor in training at various churches in Los Angeles and Saint Louis, including my role as Senior Pastor at Revival Center Christian Theater Church. I developed and led ministry programs such as youth and adult education, pastoral counseling, baptisms, communion, and community outreach. As the founder of the Drama in Christ Theater Arts ministry, I wrote, directed, and produced original musicals and plays, engaging diverse communities and strengthening congregations. My theological training, guided by esteemed mentors, and bilingual abilities (English/Spanish) allow me to minister effectively to diverse groups. Additionally, I have extensive experience in leadership, mentoring, conflict resolution, and organizing events that foster spiritual growth.

As CEO and Founder of the Multicultural Arts Foundation of Saint Louis, I have worked with churches, schools, and institutions nationwide, establishing arts programs that inspire and educate. My expertise spans directing, producing, choreographing, teaching, fundraising, and talent development. I hold training in biblical studies, theater, music, and dance from institutions across the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

I am eager to contribute my skills and passion to this role and welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience aligns with your needs.

WITNESS – THE MUSICAL

Book & Lyrics by Joe Elvis Alway
Co-Created with Bart Baker

WITNESS – Part spiritual testimony, part theatrical storytelling.

WITNESS – The Musical places Jesus at the center of the story as both divine and deeply human, celebrated in Jerusalem, anguished in Gethsemane, and obedient through suffering. Yet the narrative is carried by the witnesses who surround Him: those who loved Him, feared for Him, denied Him, betrayed Him, doubted Him, and were forever changed by what they saw.

Rather than staging the crucifixion, WITNESS invites the audience to feel it through implied action, evocative sound design, and intimate witness statements, creating an unforgettable experience of grief, mercy, and hope. From Mary’s aching “My Peace,” Jesus’ Gethsemane prayer “Why Me?” John’s searing “I Stayed,” Judas’ devastating reckoning “Born to Betray,” and Peter’s confessional “Three Times,” the music drives relentlessly toward a sunrise-ending resurrection celebration.

In the final moments, the story turns outward, inviting the audience to step into the circle of testimony and answer the question: Can I get a witness?

CAST OF CHARACTER & GUIDE

JESUS - Center of the story – divine and deeply human.
MARY, MOTHER OF JESUS - The heart of the show; she carries the human cost.
JUDAS - The struggle between choice and destiny.
MARY MAGDALENE - Grace embodied, devotion in motion.
MARTHA - Steadfast, practical faith.
RUTH - Faithful friends
THE WOMAN - The unapologetic skeptic.
HANNA - Pure faith and resurrection memory.
RACHEL - Faith beginning to form.
JOHN - Witness of love, courage, and pain.
JAMES (BROTHER OF JESUS) - The late-converting family member.
PETER - Fearful courage, failure, and restoration.
THE ROMAN SOLDIER - A hard heart that finally breaks-down.
ENSEMBLE - The world watching and responding.

THE AUTHORS

BART BAKER
Bart Baker is an acclaimed novelist, playwright, and screenwriter known for a body of work that bridges film, television, and modern literature. His credits include the feature film LIVE WIRE starring Pierce Brosnan and television projects such as DIRT with Courteney Cox, as well as MOTHER OF THE BRIDE, BABY OF THE BRIDE, and CHILDREN OF THE BRIDE starring Rue McClanahan. He is the author of the HONEYMOON WITH HARRY trilogy—HONEYMOON WITH HARRY, A SECOND HONEYMOON WITH HARRY, and THE LAST HONEYMOON WITH HARRY—the first of which is the basis for the forthcoming film starring Kevin Costner and Jake Gyllenhaal. His additional works include THE WEDDING GIFT, WHAT REMAINS, AFTER OZZ, THE VIRGIN DAIQUIRI, and the Cordon Finn series. Bart also wrote the 2025 Lifetime movie HIS, HERS & OURS starring Taye Diggs and Lesley-Ann Brandt, as well as an upcoming television film featuring a country music legend. His work has been featured in ST. LOUIS MAGAZINE, which highlighted his film FOREVER starring Taye Diggs and Meagan Good.

JOE ELVIS ALWAY
Joe Elvis Alway is a playwright, composer, director, and choreographer with over 33 years as a theater arts and dance educator, serving communities through Multicultural Arts. His work blends rhythm, faith, and humanity to create theater that uplifts and transforms. Joe collaborates with Hall Studios Music, which recorded some of his songs “The Songs I’ve Heard from Tim McGraw,” “Buddy,” “Ukraine,” and “Dad, I Forgive You.” His song “Song of Victory” was recorded by the Voices of Nigeria Children, extending his musical reach internationally. His original theatrical works include OPEN HOUSE ON CHRISTMAS EVE, MIXX-NUTZ CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION, LAZARUS: FRIEND OF JESUS, WE ARE THE WHOLE CAST, TOO OLD FOR THE CHORUS, TIME TO SURRENDER, and UNTOLD STORIES OF CITY KIDS. He co-created WITNESS in 2004 with Bart Baker and re-imagined it in 2021 as a full musical featuring original songs and expanded storytelling.

Together, Alway and Baker created WITNESS in 2004 as a monologue-based dramatic work. Combining Joe’s theatrical and spiritual vision with Bart’s cinematic emotional storytelling, they crafted a piece that resonated deeply with audiences. They also co-wrote THE THREE WISE MEN (THE THREE GUIDOS) and BROADWAY WITH A CHRISTIAN TWIST. The 2021 musical adaptation WITNESS honors the original concept while expanding the narrative for a new generation of theatergoers.

WITNESS

Through gripping monologues and heartfelt dialogues, Witness brings to life those forever changed by their encounters with Jesus—Mary, His mother; Mary Magdalene; Judas; Peter; a Roman soldier; and more. As they wrestle with awe, doubt, love, and redemption, their stories reveal the profound impact of His life, crucifixion, and resurrection. A powerful exploration of faith and transformation, Witness is a moving testament to humanity’s encounter with the divine.

MAMA KICKY'S MIXX-NUTZ CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

In this heartwarming and comedic holiday musical, Mr. Mixx invites everyone he meets to his Christmas Eve gathering, while his reserved partner, Mr. Nutz, prepares the festive meal. As the evening unfolds, unexpected guests arrive, including Mama Kicky, a strong-willed woman adjusting to life after a stroke, and Tiffany, Mr. Mixx's daughter, who returns after 20 years, sparking nostalgia and unresolved tensions.

With a colorful cast of characters, the celebration turns into a lively mix of humor, heartfelt moments, and chaotic interactions. The show explores themes of family, forgiveness, acceptance, and the power of love and community. Filled with catchy songs and emotional depth, Mama Kicky's Mixx-Nutz Christmas Celebration emphasizes love, unity, and the true spirit of the holiday season.

Sample of songs

TIME TO SURRENDER

Set in Anywhere, USA, Time to Surrender follows two brothers at a crossroads of faith, family, and loyalty. Malvin, a devoted Christian, refuses to abandon his older brother, David, despite David’s role as the leader of a dangerous gang. When David is given an ultimatum that could destroy his family, a tragic event during a gang initiation forces both brothers—and their community—to face the consequences of violence and division. This powerful play delves into the struggles of today’s youth, delivering a message of forgiveness, hope, and the transformative power of faith. Time to Surrender highlights the courage needed to embrace redemption and choose a better path, even in the darkest of times.

WITNESS

Expanding the narrative with 28 evocative songs, Witness (The Musical) deepens the emotional journey of those forever changed by Jesus. From Hosanna to He’s Alive, the music amplifies the struggles, doubts, and triumphs of Mary, Judas, Peter, and more. Their stories of awe, betrayal, and redemption unfold in a powerful, spiritually resonant production—culminating in a stirring portrayal of Jesus’ life, crucifixion, and resurrection. A vivid celebration of faith and transformation, Witness is a testament to the enduring power of grace.

Sample of songs

OPEN HOUSE ON CHRISTMAS EVE

On Christmas Eve, Miguel, a man in his thirties caring for his elderly grandmother, is visited by four mysterious figures. The first, Michael, holds a newborn named Emmanuel, fulfilling a dream Miguel had of God revealing Himself through a child. As the night unfolds, Nativity, Gabriel, and a skeptical figure named Luke each challenge Miguel’s faith, leading him to confront his beliefs and doubts.

The play explores redemption and love as Miguel faces a life-changing choice: to open his heart to God’s call or resist it. Open House on Christmas Eve reminds audiences of the true meaning of Christmas—love, grace, and salvation.

LAZARUS, FRIEND OF JESUS

Set in the "Saints of God" Retirement Home, Lazarus: Friend of Jesus is a vibrant, musical celebration of faith, blending stories from the Old and New Testaments. Legendary figures like Moses, Deborah, Sarah, and King David gather for testimony night, sharing tales of miracles and transformation. When Lazarus arrives, he passionately recounts his personal experiences with Jesus, offering a fresh perspective. The night reaches its peak with the arrival of John the Baptist, and together, they deliver a powerful musical testament of faith. As Lazarus is resurrected before the saints, God's enduring power is revealed in this heartfelt exploration of connection, hope, and the timeless bond of faith.

C.P. THE SUPERHERO IN YOU

Young C.P. attends a Christian superhero camp, where kids discover their purpose in Christ. Guided by mentors and fellow heroes—MOM, WITNESS, RADIANCE, and CLARITY—he embarks on a journey to unlock his divine destiny. Facing villains like MISS LEAD, PAYNE, and SHADE, C.P. learns that true heroism lies in humility, compassion, and love. Through faith, mentorship, and teamwork, he discovers that real power comes from serving others and sharing God's love.

Designed for kids’ camps, this play blends faith, self-discovery, and superhero fun for a transformative experience.

MAMA KICKY FAKES HER FUNERAL

In this uproarious sequel to Mama Kicky’s Mixx-Nutz Christmas Celebration, Mama Kicky decides to fake her own funeral to hear what people will really say about her. With the help of her sidekick, Mr. Nutz, she stages the event, setting the stage for chaos and comedy. As guests arrive with their “church lady” personas, they sing gospel funeral songs and share their thoughts on Mama Kicky—some sweet, others not so kind. As truths spill out, Mama Kicky tries to stop the revelations, but Mr. Nutz insists she let it unfold. Filled with twists, laughs, and gospel music, Mama Kicky Fakes Her Funeral is a hilarious journey of friendship, reflection, and unexpected truths—delivered with Mama Kicky’s signature sass!

THE WOMAN OF THE BIBLE

(play in monologue) 2008

From the dawn of creation to the resurrection of Christ, The Woman of the Bible tells the stories of ten extraordinary women whose faith shaped history. From Eve, the mother of all humanity, to Sarah, Rebecca, and the sisters Rachel and Leah, who forged the lineage of Israel, their lives reflect resilience and divine purpose.

Miriam, Deborah, and Esther demonstrate courage and leadership, while Ruth and Mary, the mother of Jesus, embody loyalty and grace. Finally, Mary Magdalene, the first to witness the risen Christ, brings hope to the world.

This inspiring journey celebrates faith, perseverance, and the enduring power of redemption.