Humanity’s need for freedom is often overlooked in a country where it is defined as a basic right by the Constitution.

However, injustice, religious persecution and the denial of freedom are realities for people around the world.

In addressing these issues we are often challenged to look at our own lives and how we treat others.

“Pentecost,” the 1995 Olivier Award-winning play written by David Edgar, will make its non-professional debut in this country at Fisher Theater tonight.

Iowa State Theater will present the epic tale, which confronts many of the major cultural, national and historical questions that face contemporary society as it approaches the millennium.

Gregg Henry, director of “Pentecost,” said the play goes beyond religious and racial issues and defines what we all need — freedom.

“The play really talks about the commonality, that we’re all in this together,” Henry said. “We all deserve a home, and we all deserve to grow up free.”

Jack Meggers, who plays Leo Katz in the play, said the audience should develop an understanding for the importance of the human condition. “They should become more aware of the many issues going on around the world that we’re ignorant of,” he said.

The play is set in an abandoned church on the eastern border of new Europe. The desolate building, a mix of beauty and filth, is also the home of a newly discovered fresco that could revolutionize the history of western art.

The fresco becomes the center of a controversy over authorship, ownership and the meaning behind the work, until an unexpected and threatening arrival forces a group of people to face issues spanning far beyond the conservation of the painting.

As the night progresses and things become more complex, events spiral towards an explosive climax.

“The tragic irony found in this play is that very often we don’t realize it until it is too late, until the light is dawning,” Henry said.

Henry also said the play involves the audience and encourages them to become emotionally involved.

By focusing on issues that are discussed in religious studies, European history, philosophy and art, the play allows students to put a face behind the events and people they’re studying.

He said “Pentecost” grabs your head, your heart and then your guts.

“What is so terrific is that it recognizes that we’re all intelligent human beings,” Henry said. “It isn’t over simplified. It’s a relief to have a playwright that actually trusts us with some pretty complex ideas.”

Meggers said the passion each character feels for his particular situation brings life to the play.

“What each character is fighting for is different, but none of them are wrong,” Meggers said. “The refugees are fighting for their freedom, and their struggles are real.”

“Pentecost” also features a talented production staff. Guest costume designer Catherine Norgren, the head of design at the SUNY-Buffalo, has designed costumes for a variety of theater companies, including the Studio Arena Theater, the Vermont Stage Company and the Virginia Stage Company.

The set, which includes the 10 foot by 6 foot fresco, was designed by ISU Theater’s resident technical supervisor, Keith Duster.

Henry credits Duster for interpreting the set in such a way that it not only tells the audience where they are, but also captures the abandoned quality of the church. Chris Mannes, whose work was seen last spring in “Bye Bye Birdie,” will again bring his lighting designs to the stage and the production.

Henry also said that regardless of a person’s religious beliefs, it will be hard to walk away and not think about the issues and the play’s title.

“I believe that at the play’s end, the audience will understand what ‘Pentecost’ means — the gift of the Holy Spirit. Are we squandering it, or are we really making use of the gift?” Henry asked.

“Pentecost” opens tonight with additional performances Feb. 21, 27 and 28 at 7:30 p.m., and Feb. 22 and March 1 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are available at the Iowa State Center ticket office or by calling 233-1888 and are $4.50 for students, $8 for general admission and $7 for senior citizens.

Meggers encourages everyone, from students to faculty, to attend the play. “It’s very real. Things like this can and are happening. If you aren’t aware of them, you’re missing something important,” Meggers said.