Stefan’s brand new production, Open Heaven, is a word-for-word solo dramatisation of Acts 1–12. Rehearsals have been busily underway ahead of the premiere in November 2026. We spoke to Open Heaven’s Director, Lisa Gilmour – who also directed I AM MARK – who gave us this moving account of how the rehearsals are shaping up ahead of the brand new show.
“As the director of Open Heaven, it has been a profound joy to return to the rehearsal room with Stefan following our previous collaboration on I Am Mark. There is already a shared language between us—an understanding of the sacred responsibility that comes with bringing scripture to life—which allows us to work with both trust and creative freedom. Stefan brings not only discipline and sensitivity to the text, but a willingness to explore deeply, to question, and to refine until each moment feels truthful and alive.
“Our rehearsals are genuinely exciting spaces to inhabit. There is a strong sense that we are not working alone; rather, the Holy Spirit is present with us, guiding and shaping the process. As we delve into the Acts of the Apostles, we find ourselves continually inspired—discovering layers of meaning within the sacred text and asking how best to honour and communicate those truths through performance. It becomes less about “staging” and more about “revealing.”
“The process itself is deeply edifying. There are moments in rehearsal where we feel lifted out of the world—where, for a short time, we are truly transported into something sacred, spending time with our Saviour as we are surrounded by the study of His words. It is a treasured experience, one I feel profoundly grateful for. As both a theatre maker and a woman of faith, I value the opportunity to offer my talents in this way—to share my testimony of Christ through performance, and to create work that is both artistically and spiritually meaningful.
“This sense of purpose is reflected in how we begin our rehearsals. Alongside the essential vocal and physical warm-ups, we also start with prayer. It may seem unusual in a traditional rehearsal context, but for us it is vital. Just as we prepare our bodies and voices, we must also prepare our hearts. That spiritual “warm-up” invites the Spirit into the room, aligning our intentions and opening us to inspiration—so that, in a very real sense, heaven can open for us as we work.
“We spend time exploring the humanity within these early disciples of Christ. What does it mean for Peter, a hardworking fisherman, to speak as one of the people—grounded, direct, and deeply relatable? How do we physicalise Stephen’s exuberance and courage as he delivers his bold testimony? These are not abstract questions; they are lived explorations in the rehearsal space, embodied through voice, movement, and intention.
“Stefan is exceptional in this process. He receives direction with openness and thoughtfulness, but more importantly, he contributes creatively—engaging fully with the ideas we develop together. He captures subtle emotional shifts and nuanced character details, ensuring that each figure feels authentic rather than distant or symbolic.
“At the heart of everything we do is our audience. Our purpose is not simply to perform, but to invite. We aim to immerse those watching in the words of scripture so completely that they are able to encounter Christ for themselves. Through this work, we hope audiences do not just observe these pioneers of faith, but feel connected to them—and ultimately, come to know Christ in a deeply personal way, receiving their own revelation and witness through the experience.”
Many thanks to Lisa for her time taken in recording these heart-warming details during rehearsals, and of course for all her hard work and creativity in preparation for the new production.
Open Heaven, will begin touring from 6th November 2026. Book your performance today: https://iam-mark.com/book-a-performance
