Journey of the Spirits Kuntu Repertory Theater Runs through Feb. 9 Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m. Alumni Hall, 5th Floor 412-624-4364

“Journey of the Spirits,” the latest work from Kuntu Repertory Theater, is the story of the Holy Temple Baptist church. Under pressure to close its doors as its numbers shrink and greedy developers close in on its valuable city real estate, the congregants find help from Tasha, a messenger from the Spirit world, which is, “the place that provides music and inspiration when we need it,” according to director Herb Newsome.

Rousing gospel arrangements and simple staging make for an engaging performance – as founder Dr. Vernell A. Lillie advised, “Take out your gum, take off your gloves, because this is a clapping good time.”

Written by Ernest McCarty, “Journey” poses questions about the place of faith and community in the modern day. As America embraces a culture that views success as monetary achievement, the kinds of success that result from our relationships with others and ourselves get lost in the milieu. In his director’s note, Newsome writes, “There seems to be a big push in this country towards change