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Igniting Hearts
As a Touring Christian Missionary, and 501(c)(3) corporation, Plays On Word Theater exists to illustrate the scripture and illuminate its truth through visual, audio and tactile theatrical performances, highlighted with original music. We aspire to transport you to historical Biblical moments and back again. We want you to walk away having experienced the full measure of God's love... KNOWING that you can experience His power and provision in your life too.
Road Mapping the Future
Through the monthly and yearly support of donors, Plays On Word Theater will continue to travel the mission field with an expanded catalogue for performances in churches, schools, prisons and communities across the United States and globe.
He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to all creation."
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— Mark 16:15 —
The Vineyard —
Throughout Scripture the image of the vineyard proves God’s incredible love for His people and the unimaginable care He bestows on them…on us. We serve a God who wants to remain in a personal relationship with us. He wants to care for us, keep us for his own and is faithful even when we aren’t. The vineyard proves to be a paradigm of hope. It shines a spotlight on God’s continual nurturing and provision.
As we walk among His vineyard, His missionary field, our heart is to act as a willing vessel in the care of God’s people. We aim not to SOLVE the problems of our audiences but to be the beacon (and reminder) that points to the One Who WILL stand with them throughout the joy and the pain…amidst the chaos and turmoil...and ultimate restoration. Scripture proves God's faithfulness throughout. Plays On Word is just the willing vessel blessed to help shine a light on His Truth in a creative and thought provoking way.
"The preaching, the acting, all of it comes together and works together in the delivery of the Word of God."
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— Pastor, Fred David Kenney, Jr. —
The Team —
Fred David Kenney, Jr.
Founder/ Artistic Director
Standing center stage, Fred doesn't like to describe his plays proceeded by the term "One-man". He's first to remind you he doesn't stand center stage alone.
Affectionately known as "Teddy" to many, some favorite hobbies include gardening, making music, creating, writing/ telling stories....and critiquing Hallmark movies with his wife, Katie. It's no surprise that his favorite book is the Bible, but you know it's an art when he flows from one of many memorized verses, right into a Willy Wonka quote. "You get nothing! You lose! Good day Sir!" (wait...WHAT?!) Contact Fred!
Katie Kenney
V.P./ Creative Executive Director/ Wifey
Katie is the "Brand Ambassador" behind Plays On Word. True to Mumma's echoes, she knows... "it's all about the presentation." So ya better make sure the style sheets are up to code. (At Plays On Word, we're not worried.)
There's a lot of creative stuff that Katie likes to do, with photography, writing and art topping the list....oh the time to do it all. A Graphic Designer for (uhhh, longer than she cares to admit) she has fun when she gets to combine all three through her line of "photo in to fine art" commissioned prints. She loves Jesus, her husband, family and coffee (trying to love green tea more) ... and HATES making a left turn without a traffic light. Contact Katie!
Phil Sinclair
Guest Musician: Bass
When Phil joins us on bass, he adds a richness and full bodied flavor to all our performances. Always an engaging smile on his face, he'll be the first to tell you these performances "never get old".
Being the "Bass Guy" that he is, it's no surprise that Phil likes to collect them, but he's also been known to pick up a model train...or eight. "To do absolutely nothing one weekend" SEEMS like an attainable item on the ole bucket list. Phil doesn't have an "elevator pitch" cuz he always takes the stairs. He says he has too many best friends to name, but his wife Lisa, remains #1! Good answer, Phil. ;)
Roy Larsen
Guest Musician: Bass
Faithful to the bass section, Roy is consistent and reliable. We know it's ON when that toe starts a tappin'! And as far as Fred is concerned, Roy is also a spiritual mentor to him and a guy that Fred gleans great inspiration from.
It’s no surprise that playing bass guitar is number one on Roy’s list of hobbies. With his level of expertise, it’s truly a pleasure for us too! With a quick whit and curious nature, it makes sense that reading is a close second. Favorites include the Bible along with classic and mystery novels like Agatha Christie. A collector of memories, you’ll find his favorite travels are with his wife Jackie and family. And yeah… He didn’t mention it, but we KNOW he watches Hallmarks too. ;)
Andrew Sinclair
Guest Musician: Drums
When Phil brought along his son Andrew to play drums for us, we were elated. Aside from his awesome percussion skills, Andrew (and Phil), make for a great reference during "Pete". Andrew's truly in the boat with us!
Also known as Andy or Adam to friends and family, Andrew is NOT a fan of tight spaces...but he's known to open up the living room dance floor for a favorite tune from the Backstreet Boys. Staying true to his bucket list, we're thinking that skydiving, WHILE wrestling an alligator OVER Tokyo would also make for a GREAT adventure movie. We hope you get there Andy, but maybe not all at once... for your own safety of course.
Andy Puzycki
Guest Musician: Drums
Andy will always hold a special place in our hearts as he was the "Inaugural Percussionist" who first started out with us!
Andy's kind nature is evident in the relationships he has with family friends. His love for God and family shines through. A seasoned drummer, he can be found worshiping with his church team during Sunday service.
Randy Yelton
Guest Musician: Drums
It's always a jam when Randy plays. No direction needed; he instinctively knows what's right. He's a real pro and it shows!
Once you meet Randy, you’ll be calling him by his nickname, “Smooth” in no time. Musical coolness just oozes off him. Funny, cuz if he catches your ear, it’s never about him, though. He’ll tell ya he’s “just a nobody trying to tell everybody about Somebody Who saved his soul”. So, no surprise there that Jesus IS his hero. A lover of psychology and criminal justice books, his wife Nancy remains his true partner in crime… well, no ACTUAL crimes committed… you get the idea ;)
Gregory J. Love
Guest Musician: Drums
Talk about another faithful, talented member of our ensemble! He’s just ALWAYS ready. We can call on Greg in a pinch and he is ready and willing to serve the Lord!
With the last name of LOVE, it really shouldn’t be a surprise that Greg is a very sentimental guy. In his self-proclaimed comfy garb of shorts and a tee, most days Greg can be found enjoying any one of his many hobbies: making music, going kayaking, watching football and hangin’ with Mrs. Love. Other favored pastimes include reading from his favorite book, The Bible, watching sunsets and enjoying a good steak. Put all three of those together and you can bet it’s like heaven for Greg… well, almost. ;)
Carmine Inteso
Tech Supervisor
As Technical Supervisor and Head Engineer, when you need to rely on top notch audio, you get out of Carm's way cuz his "street cred" proceeds him! He's been a loyal member of the team since "jump".
Carmine is passionate about his God, his faith and his "Proverbs 31 wife", Autumn... not to mention the rest of his family & friends. Known to spend hours in his studio mixing tracks or prepping Sunday sermons for upload, he'll occasionally cue up his OWN audio to play a little bass. And don't let him fool ya, he only PLAYS the "grumpy sound guy" from 10:00 to 11:30 on Sundays!
Dave Morill
Videographer
Dave is our "go to" video guy and has voluntarily followed us to SO many performances, he could probably recite each one verbatim! With several years in the biz, he maintains an eagerness to learn & grow in this field.
An avid photographer, Dave keeps Costa Rica, Africa & Ireland top of the bucket list for a photo excursion like no other. A caring person, he loves his church, family & friends, living his life like a line from a favorite movie... "God is NOT Dead!" With a love for both photography & nature, it's no surprise that two of the most unusual things in his home are a butterfly & dragonfly. His heroes are Jesus & Pres. Ronald Reagan... yes, in that order.
Kevin Sinclair
Videographer Intern
Kevin is our favorite video intern! Ok, he's our ONLY intern but we created the position because we love his passion for photography, filming, and editing...not to mention his willingness to learn!
Affectionately known as "Kevo" to some, He collects computers & cameras, keeps a visit to Cali on his bucket list & after too much of a favorite food, can be known for reciting another favorite..."Mr Stark I don't feel so good!" He says the most unusual thing in his home is a green screen, but if you understand Kevin's love of all things video, you'll KNOW...that's not SO unusual!
Board of Trustees —
Fred David Kenney, Jr.
Founder/ President/ Artistic Director
"I started Plays On Word because I believe the Lord put it on my heart to do so. I am inspired by the never ending wonders of God through His Word. My favorite quote is from the "PETE" play, “ I HAD to say something!” And in preaching the Word and spreading His Good News…that’s the best place to start!"
Fred ‘s love for theater and music started at an early age and was honed on the stage of Manasquan Highschool and over his parents’ garage. Years of perfecting his craft led him to several personal and professional accomplishments, through his independent label, FDKjr Music, including:
Kindred & the Family Soul - Musical Director
Black Lillie/ The Roots Showcase-NYC, Philadelphia - Associate Musical Director
Words & Sounds showcase- Philadelphia - Musical Director
Vivian Green- A Love Story (certified Gold) “Fanatic" + "Keep On Going” - Lyricist, Producer, Programmer
Funk Master Flex Vol III (certified Gold) - Producer
Carol Riddick “Brown Eyed Girl” - Producer
Jazmine Sullivan “Braid Your Hair” - Producer
Lady Alma “House Party” - Producer
Harold B- Resolution – Producer
A lover of both Biblical and intellectual studies, Fred sharpened his skills at OCC (Magna Summa Laude), Trinity College of the Bible and the University of Pennsylvania. Volunteer activities have been many throughout Fred’s spiritual walk, currently including a church plant for Calvary Chapel Living Water, Toms River, NJ, where he currently serves as an Associate Pastor.
When asked about Fred’s influences and mentors over the years, A smile slowly crosses his face as he starts to recite the list of those who have deeply (profoundly) impacted his life: Rev. Chuck Smith, Rev. Mike Morgan, Rev. Joe Gratzel, Rev. Joe Santucci, Rev. Steve Shwartz, Rev. Cliff Whitehead. Musically: Wes Montgomery, Mozart, Antonio Vivaldi, Dave Brubeck, Herbie Hancock, Gregory Porter, Jeff Lorber, James Brown, Earth Wind & Fire, The Gap Band, Stevie Wonder, George Clinton, Prince, Men at Work, Midnight Oil, Ben Kenney, U2, Edwin Hawkins, Joe Pace & the Colorado Mass Choir, Fred Hammond, Andraé Crouch, Mahalia Jackson, The Dixi Humingbirds, Chris Tomlin, 7eventh Time Down, Johnny Cash, Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, and many more. On and on!
When it comes to Plays On Word, Fred has SO many favorite scriptures that come to mind. Check them out a few of them in his own words: Acts 15:41, Mark 16:15, Matthew 28:8, 2 Corinthians 2:17.
Katie Kenney
V.P./ Creative Executive Director
“When I met, my soon-to-be husband, Fred, a.k.a. Teddy, God placed one simple phrase on my heart... “He’s going to do something, and you’re supposed to help.” Although there have been a handful of ministry moments over the years that could easily fit this category, Plays On Word Theater, by far, is one of the strongest manifestations of the union of our marriage. Like any two artists, we can have our momentary creative differences. For us, this is a perfect union, and “we get” why God brought us together. Even though my husband is the one on stage, I feel like this ministry is as much for me, as it is for him...and I'm equally committed to it!”
Katie is a veteran of marketing and advertising, a road she’s traveled for over 30 years. Having worked with some major brands like Maybelline, New York Yankees, Hard Rock Café, Bristol-Myers Squibb and Merck pharmaceuticals, Katie is also the Creative Director and Proprietor of JAM Concepts, an independent design studio. In addition, Katie enjoys turning “moments into masterpieces” as she creates photo-into-art commissioned canvas prints through Katie Kenney Gallery Prints.
An effective team member whether leading or collaborating, Katie has been affiliated with a number of publishing organizations including the New England Press Association (NEPA) and New Jersey Press Association (NJPA). These are two organizations for which she has held positions as Guest speaker, Association Judge, Committee Co-chairman and Seminar Creator/ Leader. Katie is most noted in this arena for the countless “Effective Advertising” seminars that she conducted for clients, interest groups, Presidents and CEOs.
Katie has rounded out her career with a number of local and state awards touting her talents as a professional designer and “conceptualizer” of brand identities. Adept in marketing theory, she is a Grand Prize Essay Contest Winner in which she displayed her copy writing effectiveness.
Gregory J. Love
Treasurer/ CFO
"From the time I saw Ted's first play I knew that others had to share in this wonderful teaching of the Bible. When they graciously asked me to be a part of Plays On Word, I prayerfully accepted. Katie & Ted's passion, faith and vision in the direction of this mission is inspiring. I want to continue to provide any support I can to help grow this ministry."
Greg is a Villanova University graduate with 36 years of professional experience for the state of New Jersey. Greg spent 25 of those years as a top-level manager in state operated hospitals and institutions. During that tenure, Greg had the opportunity to hold the positions of CFO, COO and CEO; all which required a copious knowledge of financial management, budgeting and cost containment. In addition, Greg holds extensive experience in investing, facilities management and strategic planning development.
Greg has served as a member of several Boards including:
Hope Community Church - Treasurer
Promenade Condominium Association - Treasurer
Borough of Manasquan Planning Board - Environmental Liaison
Borough of Manasquan Environmental Commission – Chairman
A favorite Bible quote of Greg’s is Matthew 4:19 (ESV) – And He said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. When asked about Plays On Word Theater, Greg will tell you, “This ministry is and will continue to create disciples!” We are pleased to continue this work gleaning from Greg’s expertise and wise counsel.
Lisa Sinclair
Secretary
"One of the things that really drew me to the mission of Plays On Word is how it reaches people and the effects that the plays have on them... many of whom are hearing & seeing the Bible come to life for the first time. It becomes real to them, (along with) the fact that Jesus is real and wants to have a personal relationship with them. I see the vision of Plays On Word and plan on working with them toward the goals they have for this ministry and pray that (it) will continue to inspire people throughout our nation and the world. Plays On Word (Theater) is the type of ministry we need now more than ever in our world."
Lisa is a devoted wife to Phil, of over 25 years, and mom to 3 children, Krystal, Andrew & Kevin and newly adopted son-in-law, Bill. She has been a Christian for over 40 years and is quick to tell you that the Lord has always proven to her over and over (and OVER) again that He will be by her side through the good times and bad. She feels honored that He’s blessed her with beautiful family and friends.
Lisa currently works in the public-school system with special needs students…and she LOVES her job. She balances that as a volunteer in her church, Living Faith Bible Church, Brick NJ. She’s also held volunteer positions as Treasurer and Recording Secretary on several PTS’s.
Jennifer SandsJennifer’s testimony
When Lisa thinks about the ministry here at Plays On Word, she is reminded of Matthew 28:19, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.”
Pam Hess
Board Member
"I was attracted to Plays on Word because of the hearts of Ted & Katie. Their desire for people to see the Bible come to life through the plays is inspirational. The purpose of their ministry is that lives would be changed and hearts would come to know Jesus and it is done through this very unique art form.- I believe in their vision and I am blessed to be a part of the journey."
Pam has been devoted to volunteer work for over 20 years, both on the local and global level. She has enjoyed helping people not only in practical ways but by also telling people about the hope they too can find in Jesus.
In 2010, Pam became the Missions Coordinator for Step of Faith Ministry in Brick, NJ. Through their support she has been leading mission trips to Haiti and Atlantic City and also helps to lead a local tutoring program.
Throughout her Christian walk, Pam attributes a lot of her growth to her past and present pastors, as well as close friends and family who have helped mold her into the person she is today. In Pam’s spare time, she enjoys writing Bible devotions and sharing them. At Plays On Word, we are blessed to be in that circle.
Pam’s favorite Bible verse as it applies to Plays On Word is Mark 16:15 – “Go into all the world and proclaim the Gospel to the whole creation.”
Roy Larsen
Board Member
"Plays On Word attracts me in the fulfillment of the ministry that God has given me, and my experience serving in that capacity has been confirmed clearly to me by God. I love the vision of Plays On Word as a means to strengthen churches in their understanding of God's Word, I am aligned with that vision!”"
Roy comes to us with an MBA, with a Marketing focus, from State University of New York, Albany, as well as a Bachelor of Science from State University of NY at Potsdam. Roy spent his professional career providing business solutions with computer hardware, software and consulting before he retired in 2019. Married to his beautiful wife, Jackie, for nearly 50 years, they share 3 sons and 8 grandchildren!
Roy feels blessed that God has given him a musical gift, through which Roy is called to serve Him as a musician/ bass player. That journey has led Roy to volunteer with • Worship team at Four Winds Fellowship • Bass player for Damascus Road and • Worship team at Fellowship Chapel. He’s also played bass for • Kevin Quinn Experience • Gary Phillips • Plays On Word • First Friday and various chapels in the area. At Plays On Word, we are honored to be on that list!
Roy counts Terry Clark, Maranatha Music, Paul Balouche and many others among his influences and mentors in the industry and in life. When it comes to Plays On word, Roy is reminded of a favorite quote by Blaise Pascal: "Do little things as though they were great, because of the majesty of Jesus Christ who does them in us, and who lives our life. Likewise, do the greatest things as though they were little and easy, because of His omnipotence." “In other words, Roy exclaims, we do all things as unto the Lord with all our mind, soul, spirit and strength! Even the greatest things are easy when we do them for Him...”
From Supporting Cast to Center Stage — Artist and Thespian Creates a "Christian Soul" Grove of His Very Own
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It's HIStory
After years of creating great music and working with some of R&B’s well known names; like Kindred and the Family Soul, Vivian Green, Carol Riddick, Lady Alma and Jasmine Sullivan, producer/writer/performer Fred David Kenney, Jr. is taking center stage as Founder and Artistic Director of Plays On Word Theater. Performing an arsenal of one-man (one God) Biblical plays illuminating God’s truth throughout scripture, Fred adds a musical score to his plays that illustrates a clear direction in Fred’s life.
Born and raised on the New Jersey shore and the oldest of three boys, Fred Kenney, Jr. began cultivating that relationship with the Lord when he was just a little boy. And he’s been fine-tuning those God-given skills ever since. “It all started in about the fourth grade when my parents purchased a trumpet so I could play in the grammar school band. Later, my Pop single-handedly lugged in a broken down piano and my two brothers and I started playing that as well.” Future additions of guitars, drums and a keyboard prove to have paid off with all three brothers entrenched in the creative industry. Ben Kenney is a recording artist and professional bass player while Michael Kenney is a photographer and musical hobbyist. Fred’s love for music and drama continued on through his high school years where Fred was named “Best Thespian” at Manasquan High School down the Jersey Shore.
Although Fred has walked with his Lord since youth, his debut CD , “My Life… a Jesus Remix”, was the first project done solely in the name and power of Jesus Christ. And now, "Plays On Word Music, Volume 2", the original musical scores, for his performances at Plays On Word Theater, continue to shine a light on Fred’s “Christian Soul” journey in the Music for his Maker.
A self proclaimed “Bible fiend”, the reality of Fred Kenney, Jr’s relationship with Christ and depth of knowledge of the Word, rings clear through every monologue and every melody.
Fred currently balances his time as an Associate Pastor & Worship Leader for Calvary Chapel Living Water in Toms River, NJ. Oh yeah and husband to his other (creative) half, and true help-soul mate, Katie.
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