The A.D. Players of Houston, TX, a professional Christian theatre company bringing its “message of hope” to audiences, has announced its 31st season line-up, including a production at New York’s Lamb’s Theatre and a surprise summer musical.

John, His Story previews Aug. 27-28 at the Lamb’s Theatre and opens Aug. 29. Written by A.D. Players Artistic Director Jeannette Clift George, the play “embodies our whole philosophy,” a company spokesperson told Playbill On-Line. The story follows the seven miracles of Jesus and is told from the perspective of the people who witnessed them. Lee Walker directs Marion Arthur Kirby, Patty Tuel Bailey, Whitney Presley and Steve Baldwin. John, His Story runs through Oct. 5. For tickets please call (212) 997-1780.

At the Grace Theater

The Houston season opens with Abraham and Sarah, previewing Sept. 24 & 25, opening Sept. 26 and running through Nov. 2. Written by Gillette Elvgren, Jr., Abraham and Sarah are back by popular demand, offering comedy, song, dance and romance.

To celebrate Christmas past and present, visit O Little Town of Bagels, Teacakes and Hamburger Buns, written by A.D. Players founder and artistic director Jeannette Clift George. A repeat performance, Bagels, Teacakes and Buns follows travellers to a famous hotel. Previews Nov. 19 & 20, runs Nov. 21 - Dec. 28 with a New Year’s Eve performance. Jeannette Clift George will take to the stage in a yet to be named production directed by Wheaton College professor Jim Young. Previews Feb. 11-12, runs Feb. 13-March 22.

James Masters’ King of Proverbs searches for wisdom with the guidance of a streetwise counselor. Both learn the true meaning of friendship and forgiveness in this heartfelt comedy. Previews May 6 & 7, runs May 8 - June 14, 1998.

A.D. Players are keeping the title of their summer musical under wraps, but say it will help audiences “beat that summer heat with music, smiles and laughter.” The surprise show will preview July 8 & 9 and run July 10 - Aug. 16, 1998.

At the Nancy Calhoun Paulson Children’s Theater

Playwright Blanche Marvin gives The Emperor’s New Clothes a new twist in this regal musical. Sept. 18 - Oct. 18.

A lonely boy discovers the joys of Christmas in Sharla Boyce’s Cold, Frankin Sense and Brrr. Nov. 13 - Dec. 20.

Blanche Marvin brings the Biblical story of the beautiful teenaged Jewish queen, Esther, to life and music in her play The Crowning Glory, The Story of Esther. Jan. 22 - Feb. 21, 1998.

Jeannette Clift George adapts more of Lewis Carroll’s stories with Through the Looking Glass. April 16 - May 16, 1998.

The Prodigal Pig returns in this remounting of Rich Peterson’s musical based on the Bible tale of the prodigal son. June 18 - July 25, 1998.

For more information on the A.D. Players or for tickets, call (713) 526-2721.

--By Laura MacDonald