LATHAM, NY – The list of movie actors who have played the role of God is endless.

For some reason, the most memorable performances have been performed by comedians like George Burns and Whoopie Goldberg. There have also been less than memorable endeavors – like Groucho Marx in the forgotten 1968 film “Skidoo”.

“An Act of God” opens at the Curtain Call Theater in Latham tonight and runs through August 14. It’s a whimsical look at how God thinks about how humans have interpreted the Ten Commandments.

It’s no spoiler to say that playwright David Javerman thinks God wouldn’t approve of all things done in his name. One example is the number of murders committed claiming it was God’s will.

The premise of the play is that God spends time with us to provide an updated list of the commandments.

The concept of comedic actors in the role of God continued throughout the production. The title role was created by Jim Parsons, the star of “The Big Bang Theory” on television. Sean Hayes of “Will and Grace” was also acclaimed in the role.

The curtain call continues the tradition. Actor Bill Schein plays the part of God.

Although the Berkshires Resident is new to Curtain Call audiences, he has impressive credits at the Ghent Playhouse playing lead roles in plays like “A View From the Bridge” by Arthur Miller. He also appears regularly with various Berkshire theater companies.

Improving his credentials for the role is that Schein had a career as a professional stand-up comedian in the 1990s, a period he calls “the last heyday of stand-up comedy.”

Although Schein describes the play as “extremely funny and filled with tons of jokes,” he insists it’s more than a comedic riff.

“The observations that are made on how people cross a line in interpreting the word of God are great fun,” he says. He adds that the jokes are not petty and are not anti-religious. But he adds that under the laughter there are a lot of valid points.

Much to Schein’s relief, this is certainly not a monologue, as God has two of his favorite angels – Gabriel and Michael – with him to help him answer questions. They are played by Rich Marshall and Scott Wasser.

Schein insists that the play is above all a fun experience of 90 minutes of laughter per minute. But he says the creative team discovered an emotional arc in the play. This arc is based on the idea that the character of God actually realizes that he might be responsible for some of the mistakes humans make in interpreting his words.

As an actor, Schein enjoys finding emotional context for an omnipotent figure. “It’s a treasure,” he said. However, in terms of audience satisfaction, he thinks it’s even more rewarding. He asks, “If the Almighty can show a growing sense of self-awareness, doesn’t that offer hope for all of us?

Schein calls the show the perfect respite for a post-pandemic audience. “It’s funny and calls for the suspension of belief. It’s a perfect game for our time.

He adds that it is also a great relief for him as a performer to be back in front of an audience. “An Act of God” is directed by Patrick White and was originally scheduled to premiere last season.

“Everything has been so rewarding. Patrick and I are trying to find a project to work on for a long time. Last year we had just started rehearsals when everything was forced to stop. Being able to continue where we left off is very important. For me, this is the validation it was meant to be.

“I have no doubt this will be a show the audience will love.”

The saying goes, “From your lips to the ears of God.” But, for this production, it could be redundant.

“An Act of God” at the Curtain Call Theater, 1 Jeanne Jugan Lane, Latham. Performances from Thursday to Sunday until August 14. For ticket and schedule information, visit Curtaincalltheater.com or call (518) 877-7529.