Clergy Group Undertakes Last-Ditch Effort To Stop School Play

INDIANAPOLIS -- Clergy opposed to a controversial Perry Meridian High School rendition of the musical "Ragtime" hit the radio airwaves Wednesday in an effort to stop it.

The play, set in 1906, includes several instances of the "N-word," in addition to taking God's name in vain and a sexual reference.

Perry Township school officials decided that the script will remain uncensored, saying it makes a statement against racism. Others disagree, saying it will only serve to stir up trouble, 6News' Ericka Flye reported.

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Video: Radio Callers Denounce Play

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Members of Concerned Clergy of Greater Indianapolis were on 1310 WTLC "The Light," a Christian station, to express outrage that the school is continuing with the play uncensored.

"A high school play with all this profanity and all these "N-words" -- You shouldn't have to say, 'Oh, it's going to be racial slurs, profane and obscene language,'" said Concerned Clergy member Rubie Alexander. "Get real. This is a high school play."

Most callers to the radio station agreed with the guests.

"It's not so much that it's an embarrassment, but more so that it's just offensive," said one female caller.

Radio show host Aaron Haight shared the views of the guests and most of the callers.

"That they would do it in celebration of Black History Month -- I find that so callous," Haight said.

The play will open Thursday night. Earlier this week, school officials reversed a decision to cut profanities out of the play, but leave the "N-word" in, deciding to leave all of the language some might find objectionable in the play.

Some callers advocated a boycott or protest of the play, while others were just upset with the content.

Callers of different ages, genders and races called in to express outrage or disappointment.

"There's some of us Caucasian individuals who are just as offended as you are," said one caller.

The only call that supported the play came from a 16-year-old student who is in it.

"It's prejudiced, but in a way, it needs to be heard," the girl said.

Concerned clergy will hold a prayer vigil in protest of the play at Perry Meridian High School Thursday at 6:30 p.m.

The first performance of "Ragtime" is set for 7 p.m. 6News was told that all 65 cast members were asked if they wanted to go forward with the play and all of them said they did.