The Run-Down Lodge

A traveling Christian drama group rolls into town the night before a church’s Easter sunrise service, expecting a simple overnight stay and a smooth final rehearsal. Instead, they’re greeted by a lodge that looks like it lost a fight with time: flickering lights, questionable smells, and a front desk bell that screams instead of rings. As they lug props through the lobby, small irritations become big arguments. Tom, a high-schooler who was reluctantly put in charge, tries to lead with confidence he doesn’t feel. Logan, the group’s “star,” is more focused on capturing viral content than serving people. Kathryn, the director, is protective of her vision and increasingly threatened by Amanda, the production assistant, who keeps suggesting changes for clarity and outreach.

Over the course of one stressful night, the group’s motives get exposed. They fight over spotlight, control, and who gets credit for a “successful” performance. When a power outage forces them to stop rehearsing and actually talk, the tension shifts into honesty. Tom admits he’s terrified of failing. Kathryn admits she’s afraid of being overlooked. Logan admits he doesn’t know how to be “important” without being admired. In the end, the run-down lodge becomes the unexpected place where their hearts get refocused. They remember why they do Easter drama at all: not to impress, but to point people to Jesus—His death, His resurrection, and the hope that still changes lives.

Theme

When ministry becomes about performance, God lovingly pulls the curtain back and calls us to serve with humility.

Characters 

(8-12 actors)

• Narrator – light commentary, transitions, keeps pace

• Tom – high-schooler, struggling leader, earnest but anxious

• Logan – stardom-obsessed costar, TikTok-focused, funny but shallow at first

• Kathryn – director, talented, controlling, insecure underneath

• Amanda – production assistant, practical, outreach-minded, bold but kind

• Sarah – stage manager, organized, blunt, comedic timing

• Ben – sound/tech, nerdy, dry humor, problem-solver

• Mia – actor, peacekeeper, emotionally perceptive

• Jordan – actor, quietly spiritual, thoughtful, grounding presence

• Mr. Hanks – lodge owner, quirky, defensive about the lodge

• Pastor Ruiz – host church staff/pastor, grateful, direct, cares about people

When

Modern day, the night before an Easter sunrise service (and early morning).

Props & Costumes

• Suitcases/backpacks

• A box labeled “PROPS: DO NOT DROP”

• A cheap ring bell (or a comically loud buzzer sound)

• Flashlights/phone lights

• Script binders

• A small portable speaker or “sound board” prop

• A broken-looking lamp or flickering light effect

• A fake “OUT OF ORDER” sign

• Optional: a phone on a small tripod for Logan’s filming

Why

Bible Verse: “We do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord…” (2 Corinthians 4:5)
Meaning: Ministry is not self-promotion. Easter drama is meant to point people to Jesus.

How

Single set that becomes multiple spaces: lodge lobby, hallway, a cramped “rehearsal corner,” then a simple “sunrise service” edge. Lighting and actor movement create location shifts.

Time

15 minutes