What is GARDEN?
GARDEN is a full-length musical play. We’re talking actors, set, props, live band—all the good stuff! GARDEN is owned by Echo Community (previously Dumb Ox Ministries) with original songs by Greg and Lizzy Boudreaux and written/directed by Joey Martineck.
Why is GARDEN unique?
GARDEN is not just a story. It’s our story. It’s the story of our humanity, of Adam and Eve adapted from the Book of Genesis, but told in a way you have never experienced before. The play is inspired by the writings of St. John Paul II who, a playwright himself, had a profound respect for art and gave us a renewed appreciation of the human person and the dignity of our bodies.
How long is the show?
The total runtime is approximately two and a half hours, which includes an intermission after Act I. This is fairly standard for a full-length musical.
How was this show created?
In 2012, Greg and Lizzy Boudreaux (Greg&Lizzy) recorded an album titled To The Dust, which was produced by Echo Community (formerly Dumb Ox Ministries). This album reflected the joys and struggles of their own dating and married life. Upon hearing the record, Joey Martineck was inspired to write a musical play based on the album. Greg and Lizzy soon joined forces with Joey to adapt existing music and write new songs specific to the play that would become GARDEN.
Has this show been done before?
In March 2017, Echo Community produced GARDEN at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans, Louisiana, directed by Joey Martineck. Every performance was sold out—over 1600 tickets—with people begging just to be able to stand in the back. In 2019, Echo Community produced the show again for a crowd of over 2800. In 2020, rehearsals were taking place in Chicago for another production of GARDEN until the pandemic hit. This Atlanta production is a revival of the show.
Who has produced this show in the past?
ECHO Community (then Dumb Ox Ministries) produced the show in 2017 and 2019.
The Archdiocese of Atlanta is producing GARDEN in Summer 2023, in collaboration with Echo Community, which is serving as Associate Producer.
The Archdiocese of Atlanta is producing GARDEN in Summer 2023, in collaboration with Echo Community, which is serving as Associate Producer.
What age group is appropriate for audience members? Is the show safe for kids?
GARDEN is enjoyable to both young and old. However, the play is not intended for very young children. Ages 10 and up will love the show.
Is this show only for Catholics/Christians?
GARDEN is the story of our humanity and it is meant for all humans. Those with little or no faith background can receive and enjoy this story.
How can I support this?
There are many ways to support this. If interested in volunteering or providing financial support, please contact us. We are grateful. If interested in serving in some other capacity, please also contact us and inform us of your desire and specific gifts.
What are the plans for GARDEN in the future?
Echo Community has plans to help GARDEN spread. If this production goes well, the Archdiocese may invest in more projects like this in the future.
