Wow. St. John in Exile is an absolute gem. It is one of those rare productions that feels more like an intimate conversation than a performance. From the moment Dean Jones steps onto the stage, you can feel the weight of history in his presence. It is not just acting; it is an embodiment. His portrayal of John, the last surviving apostle, is astonishingly breathtaking and deeply human.
Jones brings John to life with an energy and emotional depth that pulls you in from the first scene. He sits in exile on the island of Patmos, reflecting on his life, his faith, and the unimaginable experiences he has lived through. Right away, it becomes clear that this is not going to be a dry historical monologue. It feels personal, raw, and alive.
One of the standout moments for me is when John recalls his years walking with Jesus. There is warmth in Jones' voice, a quiet reverence that makes it feel like he is reliving those memories right in front of us. The way he speaks of Christ, not just as the Messiah but as his dear friend, is powerful. His eyes light up with joy, then cloud over with sorrow as he recounts the crucifixion. It is heartbreaking, but never melodramatic. It feels authentic.
The humor throughout the performance is a pleasant surprise. Who would have thought that a one-man play about an aging apostle could have genuinely funny moments? Jones adds lighthearted touches that make John feel so human, from his wry smile when recalling Peter's impulsiveness to the playful way he describes the disciples' personalities. The balance of wisdom, grief, and warmth makes every scene engaging and memorable.
Then comes the vision. The moment John receives the revelation is a powerhouse of acting. Jones transitions seamlessly from quiet reflection to a thunderous, awe-filled declaration of the apocalyptic vision given to him. His words burn with intensity, and you can almost feel the fear and wonder battling within him. His voice shakes, his body tenses, and the moment is electrifying. This is the kind of performance that does not just entertain; it moves you.
The production itself is beautifully simple, allowing Jones' performance to shine even brighter. The dim lighting and the rough stones of the prison cell create an immersive setting. You forget you are watching a staged performance and feel like you are sitting across from John himself, listening to his soul pour out in the flickering torchlight.
By the time the play comes to an end, it is hard not to feel changed. Jones does not just portray John; he invites us into his world, his memories, and his faith. The final monologue lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. His voice, filled with unwavering conviction, and his weary but peaceful expression create an ending that does not merely wrap up the story but leaves you contemplating life and faith in a profound way.
I cannot recommend St. John in Exile enough. Whether you watch it for the sheer brilliance of Dean Jones' acting or for the depth of storytelling, it is an experience unlike any other. It feels personal, profound, and deeply moving, as if you are sitting down with a wise old friend who has seen it all and lived to tell the tale.
If you have not seen it yet, do yourself a favor and watch it. It is worth every second.
