No doubt about it, Sequim is in for a treat when Olympic Theatre Arts presents "Doubt: A Parable," the Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning play written by John Patrick Shanley.

Jaye Butler makes her debut as director in a story she says has no wasted words.

The story takes place during the turbulence of the 1960s. President John F. Kennedy has been assassinated, the country is at war in Vietnam, civil rights protests are taking place. And the Sisters of Charity in New York are trying to create an area of calm in which to educate children.

Sister Aloysius, played by Olivia Shea, is a rigid, stern woman who follows the rules although she resents the men who are in control. Father Flynn, played by Miles Carignan, is a young priest who represents the new order of openness in the Catholic Church.

These two characters are in conflict. Sister Aloysius is sure something is improper with Father Flynn's relationship with the lone black student in the parish school, a 12-year-old boy.

The boy's mother, Mrs. Muller, played by Michele Jackson, only wants her son to get the good education she was denied as a girl. She wants a better life for him and does not want to be involved in any conflict.

Alaynna Little plays Sister James, a young nun who loves teaching and loves her students, eager to help them any way she can. Her youth and innocence are challenged by Sister Aloysius' accusations against Father Flynn, and she is caught between the two dominant personalities.

Small irritations lead to a powerful confrontation between the priest and the elder nun.

"Sister James reflects the confusion the audience feels in not being sure what is happening," says Little.

Sister Aloysius plants seeds of doubt and Sister James has no idea how to react.

"Innocence is a virtue in a world without evil but, since evil exists, you cannot be innocent," Shea says.

Butler says, "The play allows the audience to struggle with uncertainty. It points out that you shouldn't draw conclusions if you don't have all the information."

Shea adds, "The audience will enjoy the mystery. It is very engaging. I saw the play in Oregon and when it ended no one got up to leave. Everyone stayed for the discussion afterward."

Butler says "We will be having a discussion after each performance. John Patrick Shanley says the play is actually in two acts. One is the play you watch and the other is after the lights come up and you discuss what happened.

"No one sees the same play You reach your own conclusions about doubt and truth."

Contact Dana Casey at dcasey@sequimgazette.com.