RUTH       

Set against the landscape of rural Spain in the early 1900's, Ballet Magnificat!'s production of RUTH puts a contemporary spin on this Biblical story of tragedy and redemption.  Naomi and daughter-in-law Ruth are bound together by the shared grief of losing their husbands.  Ruth vows to follow Naomi wherever she goes- a courageous promise.  Searching for a new start, the two women set sail for Naomi's homeland, America.  After a long journey across the Atlantic, Ruth and Naomi reach New York's Ellis Island only to find that Ruth is denied entry, her documents not meeting the strict requirements of the law.  Boaz, a wealthy landowner and relative of Naomi, notices the trouble and feels compelled to pay the enormous price to purchase Ruth's citizenship.  After the payment, her name is permanently written into the book of all the New World's citizens.  Boaz offers the women jobs in his fields.  After a season of plowing and sowing, Naomi, Ruth, and their new friends gather a bountiful harvest.  During this time, Boaz takes notice of Ruth and his heart is filled with love.  Boaz proposes marriage.  An announcement is made that the wedding will take place!  During the ceremony, the couple dedicate their lives to the King of Kings, the Lord Jesus Christ.  All celebrate the Master Redeemer who orchestrates all things to work together for the good of those who love Him.  This vibrant story parallels the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who paid the price for our salvation.