A memorable experience

‎Rich Swingle was my drama teacher one year at National music camp. He is a man of passion and a man of perservence. He loves what he does and he loves his life. I am not much of an actor at all, but he believed in me, in my abilities, and was an encouraging voice. When we went deeper in rehearsals into some soul searching he was incredibly vulnerable and encouraging. I value the time that we had together for that one week and desire the best things for his life.

--Kirsten C. Ivany

Vancouver, BC

posted seven years after Rich worked with her at The Territorial School for Music and Gospel Arts

Lasting impact

I was a young teenager when I heard you speak for the first time. I am now 25. Rich thank you for your testimony! You have impacted my life... Thank You!
Hannah Greene
--Former student at a junior high camp where Rich performed
Wooster, OH

Firmly planted

I thank God for the amazing talents, gifts, joy and motivations He has so firmly planted in you! I am also especially thankful to Him for your beautiful heart...it just doesn't seem to run out of room...PTL!
--Ava-Gaye Parkes
White Plains, NY

Responses from Taiwan

Joyce and I led the Spiritual Life Week at Morrison Academy in Taiwan. Here are a few samples of notes the seventh graders gave us:

"Dear Mr. and Mrs. Swingle...it's hard to believe how you can sacrifice everything for God. :) I hope that I'll be able to do that when I grow up."

"Thank you for coming all the way to Taiwan to teach us."

"I...am very grateful that you would come to our school to talk to us."

"I enjoyed this week's talks."

"Thank you for bringing me closer to God."

"I think the acting helps lead people closer to God."

"We really learned a lot this week."

"I learned many new things I never knew."

"Now I am comforted to know that God will never leave me because of what Jesus did."

"I learned a lot about trust. I will always remember it."

"I learned to trust God even when it seems impossible."

"I learned that...we should always give thanks to God."

"I learned that God will make scary things exciting."

"I...learned that serving God can be fun and done in many ways."

"Thank you for teaching us about wisdom...and telling us that it is wonderful to trust and obey God."

"Combining acting and an interesting perspective on the Bible made this Spiritual Life Week a memorable one."

"Before you came, I didn't realize how important trust was... There (were) a lot of times that I was lost. Now I know that when we trust God He guides us through the valley of the shadow of death."

"I learned... that knowing God is the best thing you can ever have! It guides you through darkness and comforts you when you're heartbroken. I know that sometimes I may feel forsaken by God, but He's always with us."

"I have learned that nothing can really make you happy except for Jesus' love. I have my entire life to learn and serve Jesus."

"One thing I learned was that you can always trust the Lord."

"Two things I've learned: Trust in the Lord through darkness and rough times. Always believe that God will be there for you even if you don't see Him."

"It really made me think about my life and how I can change it to make it better."

"I learned that trusting God really can make a difference, and I shouldn't be afraid when God asks me to do something; just do it, and great things will happen!"

"Thank you for changing my life."

"It has been an awesome week. Thanks!"

"Our school feels encouraged!"

"We will miss you!"

"Please visit us again sometime."

Joyce and I had so much fun working together we'd love to do Spiritual Life Weeks all the time. If you know of a school that has a Spiritual Life Week, please send them to http://RichDrama.com.

After seeing Five Bells for 9/11

Rich, thanks so much for such a powerful and moving performance and message.
--Melanie M. Jeschke
Author of The Oxford Chronicles and Jillian Dare

Bringing a Message of Hope

I think it's incredible you're able to dedicate your life to bringing a message of hope to others through the performing arts.

--Jami Harris

lead in Pawn's Move

screenwriter for The Last Gift

Kudos for Cyrano de Bergerac

Rich directed Cyrano de Bergerac at the MasterWorks Festival. Here are some accolades that came in:

Bravo!!! Bravo!!!!!! BRAVO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Dr. Patrick Kavanaugh
Director of the The MasterWorks Festival

Praise God for the awesome play! Many many congratulations!!!
Heaven Fan
Harp faculty from Taiwan at The MasterWorks Festival

Spectacular! Cyrano is one of my favorite plays ever. Congrats to all the cast and teachers!!!
Caroline Chehade
MasterWorks Festival Apprentice from Montreal, Canada

From IMDb

I found this comment on my IMDb page:

I met Rich over this weekend at a Worship Arts Retreat through my church that was held in Wisconsin and I have to say Rich is one of the most genuinely nice guys I've ever met. He has passion for his work as an actor and he loves the Lord. It was a pleasure to see him doing His (God's) work and eating lunch with him was a pleasure; he is such a nice guy!
--bkb1965

Never the same

I will never read those portions of scripture the same way.
--Alana Pritchard Carithers
Violinist for Richmond Symphony
and Oberon Quartet in Residence at St. Catherines School

After seeing Paradise Lost at the MasterWorks Festival

The details popped

I've become increasingly appreciative of the socio-drama that my teacher Rich led us to do, including the enacted prayers. The Lord literally popped detail upon detail into my mind to incorporate into the improvised scenarios, while I worked my way to achieve the objectives the director set for me. I felt His presence the whole time, a peace that transcends all understanding. I was very much in character, felt like crying because they were sad scenes...

--Irene Kao

MasterWorks Festival alumna discussing her successful audition for a film

Not alone

I never felt like you were up there alone. You had a whole cast up there with you.
--Eileen Heinack (two time cancer survivor)
Greensburg, PA

And God was with him helping him do it!
--Betty Catalina
Greensburg, PA

EVER

Don't ever, Ever, EVER miss the opportunity to see Rich Swingle's 'Beyond the Chariots', a 1-man play about Eric Liddell. He plays characters of various ages & accents phenomenally well, and the message is RIGHT THERE. And he runs nearly 1/2 mile!

--Debi Ethredge

after seeing a performance at Belhaven University, Jackson, MS

A dancer stretched

I've witnessed your work in sociodrama a few times over the years and each time I am stretched.  Thank you for your sensitivity and agility to float so easily among various communities, all children of the Lord.  You also have a gift at facilitating.  You're wise to know when to sit back and when to interject.  You also have a great toolbox of techniques to help folks dig deeper.  Great work.  
--Marlene Dickinson
Choreographer, Dancer and Teacher
Atlanta, GA

MarleneDickinson.com

delightfully engaging

I had the great pleasure of attending the Applied Theatre Conference in March 2011. I pre-registered for Rich Swingle's class: "Sociodrama for At-risk People." I had little knowledge of this area but wanted to learn since my ministry has taken us to many at-risk people. Rich not only had a delightfully engaging manner of teaching but his knowledge and experience was very apparent. As we moved to actually acting and experimenting with the techniques taught, Rich was nothing less then masterful as he moved us all with confidence and patience to practice this area of Applied Theatre. I told Rich later that what was really artful was the way he would "disappear" to allow us to explore and then when help was needed or called for, he "reappeared" to offer guidance and instruction. I learned more in a weekend workshop with Rich than I think I could in a semester of college instruction. Thank you, Rich!

Charlie Jones

President

Peculiar People, Inc. 

www.PeculiarPeople.com 

Clarity

It was the first time I understood the text so clearly because of how you presented it. (Speaking of Rich's performance of Paradise Lost.)

--Linda Warren

Associate Pastor, Westchester Chapel

Adjunct professor of Bible and Christian Ministry, Nyack College

God of Hope in Manhattan

Your performance, GOD OF HOPE, was anointed and filled with the Holy Spirit of God!! Enjoyed it very much... Thank you for blessing the Nyack students with the gift that God has given unto you for His glory!!
--Latricia T. Moore
Pastoral Ministry student (class of 2012)

Nyack College, Manhattan Campus

Out of our comfort zones

Rich, your ministry at our National camp a few years back was so inspiring! And you got it. Danielle and Steve also brought us out of our comfort zones, into worship with God. I'll never forget the night the "townies" came from Metro to see what was going on. What a night!

Thanks Rich!

A wonderful gift

Thanks for coming to Compassion Australia! We were so blessed by your performances. You truly have a wonderful gift from God.

Often you see performances and they look rehearsed or like the performers are bored or just going through the routine. I know you must have done these ones many times before but they came across like it was your first performance and just for us. Fantastic!

Thanks for sharing with us!
Gail
Newcastle, Australia

Blessings from Sydney

Hey Rich and Joyce, thanks for your ministry to and with us in Sydney. You guys get it, live it, and give it - can't ask for much more than that.
Blessings and all that,
Bram - SSS
Sydney, Australia

Rich Swingle is an amazing actor! I've had the pleasure of attending several of his workshops and experiencing his shows, "The Revelation" (http://www.richdrama.com/Revelation --this one blew my mind and brought me to my knees!) and "A Clear Leading" (http://RichDrama.com/AClearLeading/ --a very accurate historical and spiritually inspiring play).

--Cheryl A. Baugh
Associate Professor
English and Communication
Department
Fontbonne University

One of the Best

Rich is one of the best actors I've ever seen.

--Ken Wales

Producer of the original Pink Panther films, Breakfast at Tiffany's, The Party, Christy, Amazing Grace

More lines!

Just watched A Christmas Snow with Eric and Leilani and enjoyed your performance as Claude, but thought you deserved more lines!

--Roxanne Squires

Columbia City, IN

about A Christmas Snow

I cried and cried.. what a good movie! You were so funny! Can't wait to see For the Glory.
--Jennifer Huston Chidester

Order A Christmas Snow here: RichDrama.com/AChristmasSnow.

Skype Works

Professor Martin brought Rich in for a video lecture using Skype.

Thank you again so much for today! I had many students come up to me afterward thanking me for bringing you to the class. I think for a lot of seniors, as they approach graduation, it can feel overwhelming trying to figure out the next steps. So to have heard from you, someone living and working successfully in NYC, proved to be incredibly valuable to them.
--Christopher Martin, M.F.A.
Assistant Professor, Theatre
Oral Roberts University

God of Hope

Thank you for coming to our church today. Everyone so enjoyed you!!! I was truly impressed by your drama of Paul's life.
--Mark Doeding
Cincinnati

Come back

I really enjoyed your dramatization/sermon of Saul/Paul! :) You have a gift!!! Hope you can come back and visit soon! :)
--Sarah Beth Zylka
Cincinatti

Exactly what we needed!

Rich - I wanted to thank you once again for the awesome performance yesterday at our church! It was a powerful message from the life of Paul who seemed to step out of the pages of the scriptures yesterday. The papers stopped rustling, the auditorium grew silent as the Spirit of God moved amongst us. And I'm SO glad you worked extra hard to prepare this new play as it was exactly where our church has been and exactly what we needed!

--Scott Cornett
Pastor
Bethel Baptist Temple
Cincinnati

Paul from God of Hope

It was great to have you minister to our people. You certainly did make Paul come to life.

I enjoyed so much getting to spend some time with you and thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship.

I can see why my son says, "Rich Swingle is the most encouraging man I know."

Thank you so much.

In Christ,
Larry Cornett
Pastor
Bethel Baptist Temple
Cincinnati

One of the heroes

Just to share that God used you mightily this morning at my church (Faith Community Baptist, http://FCBC.org.sg) to minister through the outstanding gifts he has given to you. Eric Liddell's story and theme of "complete surrender" inspires and lifts us up spiritually to be champions for God in the places He has called us. I was personally impacted by the wonderful story that you dramatized, which showcased the life of one of the heroes of Christian faith who deserves to be remembered.

May God touch and transform lives and add souls to the Kingdom through your ministry in theatre. You are a great blessing to the body of Christ.

Blessings,
Gregory Vijayendran
Chairman of the Lawyers Christian Fellowship
Singapore

Performance at 8th Army Base in Seoul, Korea

What a priviledge to see you perform at South Post Chapel today on Youngsan Army Base! We were truly blessed by your performance at both services.
--Christine Nilson Garris

Harder than physical education

This is harder than PE!
--Deanna Park
Student at Seoul Foreign School
During Rich's workshop on the physical actor (http://RichDrama.com/Workshops)

A Thousand Faces

Goooood job!!! It's very nice. We say that a good actor has thousands of faces. I saw that you have thousands of faces at 'Beyond the Chariots.
--Jeong-Rae Lee
Suwon, South Korea
Mr. Lee worked with Ellen Stewart when she brought a LaMaMa production to Korea.

from Vancouver 2010

(Beyond the Chariots) was brilliant - both the writing and the acting. Makes you realize how much impact one person can have in life.
--Nancy Lee
Langley, BC, Canada

Edinburgh Fringe Colleague

It was such a pleasure to meet you two! And your play has stayed with me--what a wonderful achievement. Now I know why friends at Edinburgh told me I had to see it, and I'm so appreciative of the divine timing that made it happen!
Blessings to you both.
Love
Leslie

Here's the story of how Leslie and the Swingles connected during the Vancouver Winter Olympics: Miracle in Rwanda.

Sociodrama workshop

I met with a young actor from LA who took your Sociodrama workshop at the CITA (CITA.org) conference at Azusa Pacific with me. We talked at length about how profitable that was for us. I use what I learned from you in my classes at our local high school, so your influence continues!

When CITA asked for feedback from the conference, I requested that you do a whole track, rather than just the one session. I thought it was the most valuable thing I did that weekend - exploring the dynamics of the relationship between Jojo and his parents [from Seussical] and determining the origin of the famous feud in Romeo and Juliet added physicality and emotion to be carried into a performance, rather than just 'head' work.

Being able to interpret for people in conflict brings the safety of actors who are not involved emotionally together with the affirmation of the reality of the intensity of the conflict to those involved, so they are able to say, 'Yes! That's how I feel! Now you get it!' Mirroring their situation in an honoring, compassionate way - brilliant.

--Bobbie Helland
San Diego, CA

Bibliodrama Down Under

Hey Rich! Hope you are going well. I am from the Sydney Staff
Songsters and I've gotta tell you that I'm still impacted by your
trip. I have organised a 'bibliodrama' Rich-Swingle style in our
Sunday night service.
--Nicola Poore
Sydney Staff Songsters
Sydney, Australia

Totally counter cultural

Dear Rich,

My name is Jana. I am a student at Fox and had the privilege of seeing you perform in chapel and your "A Clear Leading" act. They were both amazing.

I just wanted to say thanks for how candid you were in the chapel session. Possibly my most favorite was when you said, "In the beginning, work was good!" That was cool...totally counter cultural but very cool.

May God continue to bless your ministry. May you see His hand and glory working through you.

In Him and Much Luv,
Jana
George Fox University
Newberg, Oregon

from Sydney, Australia

Have just arrived home from Rich's performance of Revelation. Please pass on my congratulations, I was much inspired and encouraged. He is an inspiration.

Many Thanks
--Ian Jurd

from Down Under

You are truly amazing, praise God for his incredible gift to you. What you ministered at Camberwell was significant - it was all part of what he's working at Camberwell, in the Army and in Melbourne! It was great to see you again and to meet Joyce, and I really just wanted to thank you for your example and for Christ shining so powerfully through you! I'm praying for his continued blessing on you and Joyce and your ministry! Come back to Aus soon!
--Nikki Capp
Territorial Mission Development Director
The Salvation Army - Australia Southern Territory

Thanks from New Zealand

Hey Rich, thanks again for a great time tonight, I'm already hearing some excited reports from our teens about enacted prayer. Thanks for introducing it to us. God bless and hope you have a great trip home. Leave knowing that God has used you here in NZ.
--Drew Donovan
Youth Pastor
Wesleyan Methodist Church
Burswood/Botany, Auckland
New Zealand

from the Hospitality Queen

I wept as I read your email Rich – Praise God for His Mighty workings through you and Joyce and your team!!!! I know even greater things are coming for you both!

 

be blessed, love,
Nay

Renné Dismore
Hospitality Queen
Nay's Creative Ways
3382 Stadler Drive
Pickerington, OH  43147
614-332-3534
nay@nayscreativeways.com
www.nayscreativeways.com

...gaining on life with a sense of humor!

From Transylvania

How wonderful are the ways of our Father. :) Dear Rich and Joyce your energy and enthusiasm in the Lord amazed me and makes me to want more and more of Him. :) Thank you for sharing your life and time with us.
Your sister in
Jesus Christ,
Krisztina
MasterWorks Festival student, 2009
From Transylvania

Orlando sociodrama with poor clients

I was able to be a part of the sociodrama workshop and was really blessed by the experience. It was amazing how open the men were to sharing and also how able some of them were to contribute creatively to the activity. I journeyed all the way from British Columbia, Canada, to get involved in this and I'm glad I did. Thanks, Rich!
--Tom

Redemption and laughs

We all need a reminder of what God can do through a devoted soul, and there is no better way to draw close to that than by watching Rich Swingle perform this miraculous one-man show.  It's not just the layers Rich brings out of the characters, not just his command as an actor playing multiple roles, it isn't just the fine writing -- it's that God's spirit is present from beginning to end as Rich draws us into Eric Liddell's heart.  I marvel at the depth of this performance and the power in this play.  As a former runner, I loved how the intensity of running was captured on a small stage.  Beyond the Chariots will take you through joy, pain, and redemption with laughs along the way.  What it will not do is leave you untouched. 

--Joan Bauer, novelist

Author of Hope Was Here, Stand Tall, and Rules of the Road

Awards: Newbery Honor Medal, the LA Times Book Prize, the Christopher Award

After performances in a public high school

The kids had a great time.  When I asked one teacher what she thought of your performance, she smiled and said one word - "Phenomenal!"  I see you as highly energetic, creative, polished, engaging, and invigorating. When I watch you perform "Beyond the Chariots" and your opening of Les Mis ("The Fall"), I find myself reflecting on human nature, man's inner struggles, and his quest for true peace.  Your life and work radiate love for mankind.  May you continue to be used as an instrument of grace to inspire the multitudes.

--Cindy Sebring

English Teacher

Annandale High School

Annandale, VA

What a gift

What a gift you have been given, Rich. You are one amazing and extremely talented performer. What you shared at the conference within worship was quite powerful and so well done. Then, at the conference's end, I returned home with your DVD and watched your performance of Beyond the Chariots and it blew me away. I was indeed again impressed with your complete presence to each and every character portrayed.

With best regards,

Jane Wellford
Associate Professor of Performing Arts
Elon University

The Power of Theatre

Thank you for an outstanding presentation. Thank you for reminding me of the power of theater for the effective presentation of the Gospel.

--Rev. Ron Singleton
College Chaplain & Director -- Christian Education and Leadership Program
Limestone College
Gaffney, SC

passion for his work

I met Rich over this weekend at a Worship Arts Retreat through my
church that was held in Wisconsin and I have to say Rich is one of the
most genuinely nice guys I've ever met. He has passion for his work as
an actor and he loves the Lord. It was a pleasure to see him doing His
(God's) work and eating lunch with him was a pleasure; he is such a
nice guy!
--Brian B
Warren MI

Insightful

Rich did his "Views from a Manger" one-man play for our church, Lagrange Christian Assembly in Lagrange, IL, this past Christmas. I really appreciated the fact that he was able to weave deep Biblical truths into the fabric of this very entertaining performance. i.e. One of Rich's many characters points out that, understood in the cultural context of Abraham's day, God's action of walking through the pieces of the sacrifice while cutting covenant with Abraham designates that God himself is the covenant keeper. This role was usually reserved for the lesser king in the covenant who had the burden of keeping to the terms of the covenant or bearing the consequences.
This was a wonderful foreshadowing of how God made himself less as a baby in a manger in order to bear the burden of keeping his covenant with mankind, on the cross. It was an energetic and insightful performance. 

--Renee R

Encouraged to do what we do

Rich,

Thank you so much for coming today to share with us. You truly encouraged me to keep doing what we do! It is such a great honor to have you open yourself up for our questions! Its great. I will be praying for the movie, please keep us posted on its development. 

Thanks again.

Romans 10:15 <><

In Him

Corie Savage

Theatre Ministry major

North Greenville University

Tigerville, SC

www.ngu.edu/theatre

Connecting with the drama ministry class

Rich,

Thank you so much for stopping in to our Drama in Ministry class. You are always a delight and the information you shared was very helpful and encouraging to my students (and me as well!).

We will be checking out your blog & website updates... can't wait to hear about how the film is coming along.

You have been an inspiration to my students and I thank you for your work for the Lord.

Go in Peace, Live in Grace, & Trust in God's Love
Corrie Eddleman
Assistant Professor of Theatre
North Greenville University
Tigerville, SC
www.ngu.edu/theatre
http://CorrieEddleman.com

3rd time

The Acts on Thursday was awesome. Though it is the 3rd time I've seen it performed, the Holy Spirit was moving like it was the first.

--Sandy Rodriguez

White Plains, NY

Re: A Clear Leading

I enjoyed your play so much. You are truly blessed from God with an
incredible gift.
Robbin D Copenhaver
Meridian, ID

For information on A Clear Leading, visit http://RichDrama.com/AClearLeading

After a drama workshop

Thanks so much for doing the drama workshop at the seminary. The folks who came felt really blessed and thoroughly appreciated what you shared with them. Grace & peace as you continue your phenomenal ministry.
--Dr. Carole Spencer
Director of Friends Center
Adjunct Professor of Church History and Spiritual Formation
George Fox Evangelical Seminary
Portland, OR

All my life

"I've been studying the Bible all my life and I've known all these facts, and I've known them to be true, but this was a most beautiful presentation of the people as they probably were. It made the mental pictures that I've had come to life in this enactment.
--Carol Ernst,87 years old

Her new Hero

After watching Olympic Hero in China, my 23 year old daughter Annie says Eric Liddell is her new hero for the quality of the life he led.  I heard her telling a friend about Eric, and she said, "He led an amazing life!"
Paul Cozby
Theatre Guide for http://About.com

Amazing

The documentary was amazing! I love Eric Liddel, and I truly appreciated hearing from so many people who were involved in his life.
--Jen Stuck
Nyack, NY

Blessed and Inspired

Thanks for the wonderful contributions you made to our Worship Arts Retreat last weekend at Camp Wonderland.  Everyone was blessed and inspired by your performance, instruction, and humble spirit.  I hope our paths will cross again in the future - hopefully when we can attract a bigger audience to witness your consecrated skills.

--William Himes

US Central Territorial Music and Gospel Arts Secretary

The Salvation Army

Committed

As an actor, Rich is very sensitive to the text and intentions of the role and is very committed to involving every aspect of his body and mental process towards building the character. As a writer, he knows exactly what he wants to get across and tends to find the most efficient and effective way of doing that, while also being open to making revisions, seeing what works and what doesn't work.

--Brandon Langeland

Portland, OR

What a treat

I want to let you know how VERY MUCH we enjoyed your Eric Liddell show. What a treat for us!
--Christy An Bennett
Adjunct professor of History of Christianity
Alliance Theological Seminary
Inspiration for starting work on Beyond the Chariots

Second time

I was so moved by your performance on Saturday. It was great to see it a second time through, and I was so moved by your portrayal, particularly in one of the final scenes where Eric is talking with Mai Ker... It was a privilege and honor to have witnessed it again! Thank you!
--Claude Chew
Hartsdale, NY

More than a performance

You gave us much more than an exceptional performance. You gave us your heart and a love for people everywhere. What a talent you possess. What a blessing you are.
--Jill Morris
Community Relations Director
Greater Atlanta Christian School

Oscar award-winning quote

"Original"... "Touching"... "Well-staged".

These words best describe In All Circumstances and Feast of the Tabernacles, two very different presentations which successfully combine faith and theatre -- a rare feat!

—Robert M. Fresco

Academy Award-winning filmmaker for Chechoslovakia 1968

You livened it up

You made my weekend.  You livened it up.

--Gina Atkinson

Birmingham, England

after seeing Jonah and Harvey Silverstein

Heroic

"(Beyond the Chariots) was heroic and noble."
--Sam Witherington
Birmingham, England

If I could paint a picture...

I couldn't believe that a single man could project such a large picture.
--Hazel Brookes
Birmingham, England
After a performance of Beyond the Chariots

Short attention span

I can't sit through an entire movie. I have an extremely short attention span, but this play (Beyond the Chariots, http://BeyondtheChariots) really held my interest.
--Stacy V. Fields
White Plains, NY

Convinced

You convinced me every time you changed character.
--Dalores Wenzler
Milwaukee, WI
after seeing The Acts (http://RichDrama.com/Acts)

After Five Bells for 9/11

My husband and I were encouraged and filled with hope at the end of the evening.
Pam Hill
Pittsburgh, PA

Another anonymous post

I was at the presentation of "5 Bells for 9/11" at the South Hills
Church of the Nazarene in Bethel Park, PA. This performance was awe-inspiring and very moving. I wondered how the families of those who perished would feel, reliving these moments. My question was answered when Mrs. Ann van Hine spoke at the end of the program. She is evidence of God's healing power. I would encourage anyone who has not seen this to do so. I am thankful that Rich Swingle and Ann van Hine are using the gifts God has given them in this powerful way. May He bless them abundantly for their obedience.

an anonymous comment posted to RichDrama.com/NewsBlog

I was at the play on Tuesday, the 6th anniversary of 9/11. I couldn't even talk about it afterward because I was still "contemplating" it all. I was not as "teary-eyed" as I thought I would be, but I was deeply affected by the stories of hope. It was an amazing performance by Rich as he switched characters so quickly and did a phenomenal job. God was glorified as the stories unfolded and hope arose from the rubble. How I would love to see this again. But I feel so privileged to have been there and to have heard Ann van Hine and her testimony. It brings me to tears now as it is still so fresh in my mind, but they are tears of joy that God does not leave us in our misery, but that he provides hope in the midst of it all!! Thank you, Rich and Ann. You are truly messengers of the one true God.

An Olympic Performance

Rich Swingle marvelously intertwines history, culture, and religion through a host of characters with the main character's persona (Eric Liddell) exhibiting a cruciform way of life; true to life that even his still living daughters (i.e. Patricia, Heather and Maureen) would gladly attest to as they lost a father while others lost more than an Olympic hero for Swingle reminds us that Liddell was a man of humility and faith for the sake of others, the Chinese.
--John White

Definitely Worth Seeing

Rich Swingle is amazing in his capacity to communicate, involve and enthrall in his presentation of the life of Eric Liddell. The story has been diligently researched and brilliantly put together as a one-man play of diverse characters from a variety of ethnicities. It is exciting, dynamic, touching ... and true! Regardless of what else you may see in Edinburgh, see this!
--John Langlois
Australia

Powerful Play with a Personal Message

While the genre of one-man plays still needs to be explored by the general public at large, Rich Swingle's Beyond the Chariots does it more than justice by presenting not only an outstanding script and oustanding acting talents; it leaves you nourished and inspired with the story of this incredible Scotsman who truly traded the world for the work of serving his God. In viewing this play as an Off-Broadway production in New York City, I was struck by the technical difficulty of the assembling of this play into a cohesive and accessible plotline given the wide range of races, ages and backgrounds of the characters portrayed, yet Swingle pulls it off without a glitch, down to his excellent vocal control after running an imaginary (and very real) sprint during one of Liddell's running sequences in the play! But all that aside, one is touched by this moving portrayal of a humble and down to earth man who would willingly turn down the opportunity to run in the 1924 Olympics to remain faithful to his God because the race was on a Sunday. Such humility, committment and integrity is so rare today and Swingle portrays this beautifully! Liddell was a man who was willing to give up the world for following the Christ, that is Jesus. But in short, an excellent play! Exceptionally well crafted on so many levels!
--Claude Chew

Pasted onto a poster outside our theatre at the Edinburgh Fringe

Fantastic, believable performance, delivered with energy and emotion--Thank you!
*****

*****

This is a FAB show! It was fascinating to see the rest of the life of Eric Liddell, of "Chariots of Fire" fame; knowing it is a true story adds thought-provoking significance. Plus, as someone who has lived in Asia for four years, I am VERY impressed with the actor's grasp of Chinese language AND culture as he plays multiple roles! This is a show not to be missed--I saw it in the States first and would gladly see it again!

--Loch Winona, United States

from London

I have just returned from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, having seen Beyond the Chariots. I thought it was BRILLIANT and marvelously performed. I would like to know if there are any plans to perform it in London?
—Susan Beck

From a Dane in Oklahoma

About "Beyond the Chariots": "You made my year!"
--Colonel Vibeke Krommenhoek
International Youth Ministries Coordinator
Salvation Army

Beyond the Chariots: A Great Experience

I've never enjoyed anything so much in my life!
-- Maryann Andonian, Vancouver, WA

A breath of fresh air

(Your performance) was like opening a window and getting a breath of fresh air.
--Marge Kendall
mother-in-law of the late Mike Yaconelli

Five Bells for 9/11 on fifth anniversary

Many people commented on how helpful the service was to them and the excellent job you did. Three quarters of those in attendance were NOT from Grace so God has allowed us to truly reach out to the community.

--Karen Denaro
Minister of Worship
Grace Community Baptist Church
Washingtonville, NY

more powerful

 I just wanted to tell you what a wonderful job you did last evening.  You have changed "Five Bells" from the previous times I have seen it and it was even more powerful and more honoring to God.

--Ann Van Hine

Her late husband, Bruce Van Hine, is one of the characters in Rich's play Five Bells for 9/11

Fwd: Rich Swingle's CITA Workshop

We just wanted to thank Rich for the wonderful Sociodrama workshop  

at the CITA (Christians in Theatre Arts: CITA.org) conference!  A lot of wonderful techniques were shared  

and the impact of the improvisations created was really profound.   

Throughout the rest of the conference the participants would  

address each other as "family".  (Amazing bonding for such a  

limited time together, don't you think?)

Thanks again for this offering!

Continued blessings to Rich --

------------------------------------------------------

Cara and Tracie of Drawing Water

http://www.drawingwater.org

Re: Beyond the Chariots

Phenomenal!
--Charmaine Hunter
Choreographer, Celine Dion's dance troupe
former principle, Dance Theatre of Harlem
Cirque du Soleil

Impressed

Rich – I was impressed with your work as an actor and producer for Beyond the Chariots.  May God continue to bless your work in every way.

--Max McLean

Actor

(MaxMcLean.com)

Emmy Award Winner

"Get as many people in to see this as you can."
--Bobby Grayson
Emmy Award Winner

Which was better?

I can't decide which was better, the acting or the writing.
--Robert Fresco
Academy Award-winning film maker

So moving and beautiful

Dear Rich and Joyce,
May the Lord bless you for blessing us with "Beyond the Chariots."

It was so moving and beautiful. I sensed the Holy Spirit as Eric sang, "Be Still My Soul." I just loved all the energy and robust good humor that went into "Though Your Sins Be as Scarlet..."

The light and sets were so beautiful.

Rich, your energy was amazing.

What a treat to be blessed with this gift--We enjoyed the performance so much. I'm eager to see where it goes from here...to the Nations indeed!

Love always in Jesus,
Jim, Linda and Rebekah Warren

Authentic

I was so very privileged to see Rich's show this past Sunday in Winona Lake. FABULOUS. As a former teacher at an international school in Taiwan, I was impressed not only by Rich's exquisite acting and creativity, but also his authentic portrayal of Chinese culture!
--Amy Keith
Winona Lake, IN

Such meaning

Thank you so much for coming to our school and bringing us such inspiration and positive energy!! We all benefited from your visit. It was great to meet you and I'm so excited about the work that you do. Praise the Lord! I will pray for your continued success as you reach out to others. The students in my Drama and Grade 9 English Classes enjoyed your performance (of Beyond the Chariots) and felt honoured that they could provide feedback to you. What an amazing show with such meaning.

--Liz Gaiger

International Christian School

Hong Kong

Back to our roots

"Thus far all feedback has been very praising and grateful for 'A Clear Leading'. The general consensus is that you brought us back to our roots."

Tom Wolfe

Clerk, Religious Education

Adelphi Friends Meeting

A note from Hong Kong

"We so appreciated the work you did with our students and the opportunity to see your show (Beyond the Chariots). As I've read through my students' journal reflections on the workshops I'm blessed again at seeing how much, and how many different things, they learned from you.

"Thank you again for giving of yourself for our benefit -- and thank you for being a model for our students of how we can use our talents for God's glory."

--Susan Wade
International Christian School
Hong Kong

Beyond the Chariots: Authentic

"Great performance--authentic, moving, thought provoking!"
--Dr. James Hudson Taylor III
Great-grandson of Hudson Taylor, who founded the China Inland Mission, now Overseas Mission Fellowship International
When he was a boy, Dr. Taylor was in the concentration camp with Eric Liddell.

More interesting than Chariots of Fire

"This is going to blow you away! I've seen Chariots of Fire about 20 times, but I think this is more interesting."
--Chris White
Associate Pastor
Trail Christian Fellowship
Shady Cove, OR

About the Revelation

"I just wanted to tell you how much God used you today!!! I was so moved and still am. It is something that hasn't happened to me in such a long time; it was wonderful!!! Thank you for being His instrument."
--Jodi Penn
Hayden Lake, ID

thought-provoking

"Everyone enjoyed your chapel performance, of course. And it's clear
(from students' comments) that the 'sociodrama' segment in class was
thoroughly thought-provoking (in a very good way)."
—Alan Rathe
Professor of Worship
Alliance Theological Seminary

Views of the Manger

"The best preparatory celebration I've ever had for Advent. You exegeted the scriptures very well."
—Don Bubna
Coach, Consultant and Conciliator
Serving under Salem Alliance Church
Salem, Oregon

Masterful

The Revelation was masterful.

—Stephen Court

co-author of Be a Hero and Revolution

Anointed

A remarkable and very talented man of God, Rich Swingle is a NY actor and evangelist who is used mightily of the Lord through his many anointed one-man performances. He has taught and performed throughout the USA and in many countries, inspiring young people not only in the performing arts but also in their walk with the Lord. 

--Oona Goodman

NYC

High Energy

(Rich has) exuberance and high energy in the portrayal of several well-defined characters of the piece.  This guy is REALLY talented!

--Felicia Lopes

General Manager, Drama Desk Awards

President, 5 Stone Productions, LLC 

from a producer of Broadway's Swinging on a Star

"Rich's work not only has a dramatic appeal, but is spiritually nourishing, and that's quite a powerful combination. I like productions that raise people's consciousness and make a difference in lives. Rich does this singlehandedly."
-Kimberly Vaughn
Broadway producer, director, performer and teacher

After seeing an excerpt of Beyond the Chariots

"Good job."
--Tony Campolo, PhD
Speaker, Author, Sociologist

Enacted Prayer in Toronto

Rich Swingle has been a staff member of our annual summer School of Music and Gospel Arts for the past two years and his contribution has been inestimable.

This past week he led more than 230 of us in 'Enacted Prayer' which was expressed several times throughout the 10-day event. Real life concerns and events were brought alive in these impromptu enactments. After a brief set-up we looked on in solemn silence as the 'actors' depicted a range of life circumstances needing remedy. We viewed in detachment the sickness, confusion and desperation we could not resolve on our own. Sometimes 'God' was seen to work a miracle in answer to our prayer. But, sometimes it was simply enough to release our cares and visualize how things were now out of our hands and placed into his.

This exercise was therapeutic both in the clinical as well as spiritual sense. I mean to say, for those who saw with their physical eyes only, these tableaus engendered hope and encouragement. To those able to see with spiritual eyes, release was gained, faith renewed and a measure of peace restored .

As camp administrator I can attest the benefit of healing and wholeness derived from Enacted Prayer. In my opinion it would be an engaging and powerful tool in any community whether faith-based or not.

Sincerely
Major Len Ballantine
Secretary for Music and Gospel Arts
Canada and Bermuda Territory

Enacted Prayer

"The enacted prayer was profound on many levels... The essential wordlessness ...was very powerful... Words are often just superfluous noise. Enacted prayer points people emotionally heavenward out of the abyss of circumstance. Enacted prayer reflects the process of prayer as outlined by St. Paul...that when we cannot pray, the Holy Spirit will pray for us and through us with groans that cannot be uttered."
--Connie Knighton M.T.S.
Clinical Member A.A.M.F.T.
Individual, Marital and Family Therapist

You inspired me

I appreciate your willingness to be radical for Jesus. You inspired me with your freedom to not hold back, to let loose and not let our traditions be a barrier for you to be free to worship.
--Dion Durdle
Grounded
www.GroundedWorship.com

Journey to the Garden (listed under short pieces)

That will stay with me for the rest of my life.
--Lydia Bayne
LaGrangeville, NY

From a former skeptic

"I really enjoyed your presentation.  I have been a huge Eric Liddell fan for years.  I must admit I was a little skeptical about coming to see your (play).  But I was deeply moved by the message of your piece and also by the professionalism of your presentation.  Thank you."
--Mark Branner
Director of Theatre Arts
Antelope Valley College in Lancaster,
California

Beyond the Chariots

I am still reeling from it as it was so profound.
--Dave Layne
Scarsdale, NY

Way to go bro!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Martha (Graham) would have loved Rich's physicality, and his innate ability to maintain character and dramatic line throughout his performance.

- Steve Rooks, former Principal Dancer
Martha Graham Dance Company

Shine before men

Dear Rich,
I was so moved by your dramatic portrayal of the people who had come "Face to Face with Jesus." I could not help to think while you presented that these were perhaps some of the very people that Jesus told "Were the light of the World"! Your God given talents and gifts brought this thought to mind and I can only imagine how bright they did shine for Jesus after what He did for each of those you portrayed so powerfully! May your light continue to shine brother for His Glory!

Your blood brother,

Rod Mayer

Great stuff!!

I so appreciated your ministry at Pastor's Conference.  Great stuff!!
Faith Marsalli
Pastor
Klamath Falls Friends Church

re: The Acts

I thought you were Paul. I had to tell you how real it was.
-Andy Van der Wiele
North Haledon, NJ

from a review in England

It was exciting and provocative.
-Peter Lewis
"Rich recollection of Quaker 'hooligan'"
Hexham Courant, England (June 2, 2000)

Remarkable on a Number of Levels

I thought the Woolman play was remarkable on a number of levels. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of taking a stand for truth and justice. I liked the 'ordinary' aspects revealing [that] injustice can exist under our noses, forming the fabric of our lives. Simply because it is commonplace does not justify its existance or continuation.
-Sherrie Schulke, Professor of Sociology
George Fox University

From York, England

You gave us a wonderful performance of 'A Clear Leading' when you visited us at Pocklington School. The workshop you gave my Theatre Studies set the next morning was interesting and very useful, we speak about it often.
-Amy Greene, Student
Pocklington School, York, England

A Tour de Force

A tour de force.
-Joyce Taylor, CEO
Discovery Channel Network Europe

Happy with What God is Doing Through You

I am so happy with what God is doing for us all through you.
-Ellie Ellsworth, Artistic Director for the Eugene O'Neill Cabaret Symposium

A Gifted Couple

This is an incredible ministry of a remarkably gifted couple who use their talents and unity to emulate and communicate Jesus in a real and relevant way.
-Rev. Don McCracken
Single Adult ministries Director, Metro
New York District Church of the Nazarene

Israel TV Program

We had the pleasure of having actor Rich Swingle guest host on 'Y2', a Christian music video TV program for youth aired in Israel and the surrounding Middle East nations. His presenting was genuine and very humorous. Also his dramatic performances in Jerusalem were profound expressions of truth embodied with movement vocabulary that crosses cultural and language barriers touching the heart with the excellence of God's word and spirit.
-Richard Ayal Frieden, Producer
Heart Rock TV, Inc., Jerusalem, Israel

Great Characters

Really enjoyed your work. You do some great characters.
-Jeff Allen
comedian/actor

A Clearer Picture of God's Purpose

The writtings of the book of Revelation had always mystified me since I was a little girl, but tonight I was given a clearer picture of God's purpose.
-Sue Blish, former missionary to South America

Your Performance was a Gift

Your performance [of Views of the Manger] was a gift.
-Emmanuel Lobato, Yonkers, NY

An Amazing Gift

Your performance of The Acts today at The Lamb's Theatre was incredible. What an amazing gift you have been given.
-Cindy Dupree, Producer of Live from the The Lamb's

Very Enjoyable

I wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed the performance. We loved your sketches of Jonah, Gideon, Jeremiah and Lazarus. I enjoyed the great writing, the way you wove historical/cultural background, yet made the characters relevant and believeable at the same time. I was especially moved by you working the clay while Jeremiah's words boomed forth.
-Melissa Martin Stiles
writer for the Medford mail Tribune

A Gifted Young Artist

Rich is a gifted young artist who is a powerful instrument for proclaiming the Gospel through theatre.
-Jeannette Clift George
Corey Ten Boom in "The Hiding Place"
Artistic Director of AD Players