Actor and film director Leonardo Defilippis stars in the production, which incorporates state-of-the-art technology projected onto a screen, offering a full cast of characters. The one-man drama began touring the United States as part of the worldwide celebration of the Year for Priests in 2009-2010. More than 100,000 people in the U.S., Canada and Europe have seen more than 200 performances Defilippis' non-profit company, Saint Luke Productions, has staged. Bishop Thomas John Paprocki attended a performance in Chicago several years ago, and is one of those quoted in a promo for Vianney.

Father Daren Zehnle, associate director of vocations in the diocese, has been working with Saint Luke Productions to bring the production to places in the diocese.

"I find the character of John Vianney extremely endearing," says Defilippis. "He was a truly eccentric character, wearing a ragged cassock, living on a diet of nothing but one potato a day, yet sparing no expense for the church or his children.

"His love and concern for the salvation of every single person he encountered came through in his every word and action.

The drama is suitable for ages 9 and up.

Performances will be held:

• Tuesday, Dec. 6, 7 p.m., Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception Atrium. Springfield

• Wednesday, Dec. 7, 7:15 p.m., St. John Vianney Church Activities Center, 902 St. John Dr., Sherman. A free-will offering with be taken up.

• Friday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m., EIU Newman Center — St. Philip Neri Chapel, 500 Roosevelt Ave., Charleston. A free-will offering will be taken up, with proceeds to benefit the St. Hedwig Haus of Hospitality, a Catholic Worker House for Women and Children in Charleston. The presentation there is sponsored by the EIU Knights of Columbus, St. Charles Knights of Columbus, and the Msgr. Moriarty Circle of Columbian Squires.

• Sunday, Dec. 11, p.m. St. Francis Xavier Church, Jerseyville.