Directed by first-time director, student Marlon Deleon, this contemporary drama tells the story of two inmates held in a maximum security prison in New York.

Angel Cruz (played by Armando Ramirez) is behind bars for shooting the leader of a religious cult in the butt, while Lucius Jenkins (played by Michael Alexander) is locked up after brutally murdering eight people.

Angel is an atheist who is stuck between Lucius, who preaches about God, and Officer Valdez, a by-the-book cop (played by Mackenszie Drae), who screams that there is no God.

Thus unfolds this masterful debate that will explore the complex themes of crime, punishment and redemption.

“I believe everyone who comes to see [this play] will feel their views on religion or faith has been reaffirmed,” said Deleon.

Although the story is conveyed through religion, the concept of accountability and acceptance is beyond that.

“This work is undoubtedly about accepting responsibility for your own choices,” said Deleon. “Whether anyone agrees or denounces your choice, you should always stand behind your word and actions, and each character poses that message in his own [way].”

“Jesus Hopped the ‘A’ Train” gets up close and personal with the audience.

The make-up and costumes are quite simplistic, but viewers will be transported into prison life with a realistic stage setting consisting of two prison cells, complete with metal fences.

Staged in the smaller theater, this creates a sense of intimacy that allows viewers to connect with Angel’s personal struggles and feel the confinement associated with jail.

The language is provocative, and this production is sure to move, provoke, and inspire.

But don’t expect a cheesy, happy ending. The director leaves you with a few simple words.

“Whose side will you take in this intertwined chapter of life?” asked Deleon. “Will there even be a victor? Or is it simply about who will teach who what and who will come to terms with himself at the end?”

You’ll just have to see it to find out.

“Jesus Hopped the ‘A’ Train,” opens Dec. 5 and runs through Dec. 14. Performances are at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday in the Arena Theater. Tickets are $12.

Contact Marsha Fulk at the box office at (925) 687-4445 for more information.