By John Lyle Belden

How do you strive to do better in a rude and judgmental world without falling into snap judgements, and even, ironically, coming off rude? This conundrum comes with a dose of deeper issues in the dark comedy, “St. Sebastian.”

This Indianapolis premiere is the first full production by That Other Theatre Company, directed by company founder Jay Hemphill. The play by nationally known locally-based playwright Andrew Kramer grapples with bittersweet humor a collision of left-of-center issues including gentrification, race, and LGBTQ, as well as personal trust and faith.

Gay couple Ben (Eric Olson) and Gideon (Joe Wagner) have moved into a house with plans to fix it up and “flip” it. Ben, a former priest who works full-time on the renovation, feels glad to have gotten this foreclosure for a low price at auction. However, Gideon, a younger man who works as a DEI sensitivity trainer, discovers to his dismay that their home is in Robbins, Ill., one of the most notable historically Black towns in America. And Ben and Gideon are white.

Ben encounters a local youth, Rueben (Jy’Ierre Jones), checking out his new neighbors. Finding no ill will either way, Ben soon pays Rueben to do some yard work and odd jobs. Gideon’s extreme reactions reflect current sensibilities while betraying feelings he is reluctant to acknowledge.

The narrative plays out in a series of fairly short scenes, giving snapshots of the plot’s progression. Some elements are given without resolution, such as the padlock on the closet, and the broken window. Does the neighborhood dog (unseen) signify something, or is he just a friendly stray? Perhaps these are reminders that in real life, not everything we encounter has some higher meaning.

Much of the focus is on the love between Ben and Gideon, with honest passion and tested like that of any couple (gay, straight or otherwise). Learning the origin of their relationship could make you uncomfortable, yet Olson and Wagner make their feelings genuine. Their individual perspectives surprise them, with bitter disagreement over what were common goals. Wagner makes Gideon’s overthinking nature a source of both humor and tension.

Jones gives us an interesting, complex character. He is a teen who likes to paint action figures, a neighbor whose presence hints at a past connection to this house. He is curious and a bit insightful, but still a kid.

The title refers to an early Catholic saint, usually pictured as a young man tied to a tree and pierced with arrows, having the honor (or misfortune) to be martyred twice. Noting St. Sebastian’s more recent embrace by the LGBTQ community, Gideon keeps a small statue as a prized possession.

While you may not learn “How Not to Be a Gentrifier,” you might glean an insight into human nature under modern pressures. A show that’s sure to spark some conversations, “St. Sebastian” runs through Feb. 8 on the Basile main stage of the IF Theatre, 719 E. St. Clair St., Indianapolis. Get tickets at indyfringe.org.