He Wrote Hundreds of Poems about His Abuse by a Catholic Priest. Now His Words Are a Play.

By Emily Sabens
Indianapolis Star
June 14, 2019

https://www.indystar.com/story/entertainment/arts/2019/06/14/indiana-poet-norbert-krapf-catholic-boy-blues-play-poems-priest-abuse/1418836001/

When writer Norbert Krapf returned to his home state of Indiana after spending more than 30 years in Long Island, he finally felt ready to confront the abuse he experienced from his church's priest as a young boy in Jasper.

During a one-year span, Krapf wrote 325 poems, many of which were published in his book "Catholic Boy Blues" in 2015.

"It was almost volcanic," Krapf said. "I felt like I was finally able to write about it, and the poems just kept coming over that year."

Krapf said he always pictured transforming the poems into a play. (He even mentioned it in the preface of his book.) Now, that dream is becoming a reality this weekend at IndyFringe.

The play version of "Catholic Boy Blues" features a cast of five who tell the story of James, who is based on Krapf, as he attends therapy and confronts the abuse he experienced as a child.

Actor says the story 'haunted my dreams'

Tony Johnson, who plays the role of James, admits he was a bit intimidated to take on the role inspired by the playwright.

"It's a heavy story that, I'll be honest, haunted my dreams for a few nights," Johnson said. "Norbert is a real person who is here to help create change and connect with people with similar stories.”

The play is directed by Spencer Elliott, who teaches English and theater at Heritage Christian. Besides getting to work with his wife Ashley, who plays the role of the therapist in the production, Elliott has also involved some of his students, who have assisted with building the stage and setting the lighting.

"This is really an opportunity for my students to work in a professional setting and experience the power of storytelling," Elliott said.

"It's been great to see all of these young people bring their enthusiasm and energy to the show," Krapf added.

One of Elliott's students, 16-year-old Bradley Bundrant, plays Jimmie, the younger version of James.

“I really love acting, and being in this show has been incredible,” he said.

Chris Burton, who plays Catfish Blues, noodles on his guitar during a rehearsal for "Catholic Boy Blues" on June 12, 2019. (Photo: Michelle Pemberton/IndyStar)

The show also features music from Chris Burton, who plays the role of Catfish Blues. Burton's character is often seen in the background, playing Mississippi Delta blues music on his guitar while the other performers recite Krapf's poetry.

"The story and poetry is just so strong," Burton said. "It's been really cool to pair the blues music with these poems."

Performances of "Catholic Boy Blues" will be held at IndyFringe, 719 E. St. Clair St., on Friday, June 14, Saturday, June 15, at 7:30 p.m. The performance on Sunday, June 16, at 4 p.m., will include a conversation with Krapf and his playwriting teacher, Andy Black, following the performance. Tickets can be bought online at IndyFringe.org.

Contact Pulliam Fellow Emily Sabens at esabens@indystar.com Follow her on Twitter @emilysabens.