George Glass Productions' Alister McMichael on spotting Scientologists

After their previous success with Abbott! The Musical!, it’s no wonder the George Glass team was interested in approaching the subject of religion, and in particular, the Church of Scientology. But why does Scientology carry this intrigue? “Most other religions began so long ago that the origins, messages and stories of the religion have to be accepted as fact simply because factual history is not available,” explains Alister McMichael. What’s interesting with Scientology is its relative infancy. 

“We have the records and video evidence of the religion's conception and its growth. It’s just mind-blowing to see that the religion is still considered a religion and not seen for what it really is – a cult,” he asserts.

Don’t expect a show full of easy marks, though. McMichael, with Nic Conway, Braden Hamilton and Daniel Murnane have done their research to make sure this show has integrity. “In Edinburgh we had a few ex-Scientologists from the United States see the show and they appreciated some of the deeper jokes that take an understanding of the church to hit home.”

Infamously known for going through rubbish and blackmailing naysayers, are the group worried about potential backlash from the Church? 

“We definitely know that some Scientologists do come to see our show, they are not exactly hard to spot. They’re very focused and attentive during the whole show with very stern looks on their face. So far, nothing’s happened.” 

Music is a key tool used by the group to get some riskier jokes through to the audience. “Putting comedy into music is a fantastic way to complement both art forms. The blow of a risky joke is softened by a catchy chorus, and we find that people are more attentive to the music,” says McMichael. The musicians are the actors, which brings an organic flow to the overall show. “The experience becomes a bit more elastic and fun rather than rigid and soulless.”

If you’re worried about your possible Personality Test Results, George Glass have the answer. “Through a simple process called Auditing, using a nifty little gadget called an E-Meter which is not just a current detector attached to two Campbell's soup cans with the labels ripped off, we can help you identify problem areas and rid you of suppressive people in your life like your friends and family. It’s the least we could do,” promises McMichael.