Testimonials
MINISTER AND AUDIENCE COMMENTS, SUSANNA WESLEY PERFORMANCE
“Susanna Wesley is surely one of the most important early figures in Free Church Protestantism. For her to be a largely “unsung hero” of Christian faith is regrettable, and Shellie O’Neal is doing something to correct the problem! Our church hosted Dr. O’Neal to present the one-woman play she wrote and performs. Everyone in attendance left indelibly touched by the story and the persona of Susanna Wesley. Somehow Shellie manages to be artful, musical, theological, historical, inspirational, and delightful all at once! Our people talked about their experience for weeks. We thank the Lord for Shellie O’Neal.”
Dr. Rick Willis, Pastor
First Baptist Church, Lampasas, Texas
“With her English accent, close your eyes and Shellie O’Neal’s spellbinding presentation transports you back to the turn of 18th century England. Open your eyes for a dramatic one-woman portrayal of Susanna Wesley in period dress, the “Mother of Methodism.” Meticulously researched, historically accurate, anecdotally interesting, cleverly written and interspersed with Dr. O’Neal’s heart-felt singing of snippets from Wesleyan hymns, along with supportive props, and you realize O’Neal is the entire package! Soon you will learn why humble Susanna Wesley, mother of John and Charles, is “Content to Fill a Little Space.” Across 41 years as a Texas Baptist pastor, Shellie O’Neal’s dramatic presentations were crowd-pleasers and inspiring to the congregations where I preached. First, we experienced “An Evening With Fanny Crosby.” Now, Susanna Wesley! Don’t miss it!”
Dr. Mark Bumpus, Retired
Texas Baptist Pastor, 41 years of service
In Pearl, Troy, Mineral Wells, San Angelo, Graham
“I cannot say enough about Shellie O’Neal’s talent, vivacious personality and commitment to God. She is delightful personally, but like Susanna Wesley, she is exceptional! Shellie’s performance at Athens First Methodist was superb, nothing less than professional, but with a deeply personal feel. She “becomes” Susanna Wesley on stage and never falters in representation of that historical figure once. I will recommend her over and over and look forward to having her back for one of her other performances. Dr. Shellie O’Neal is someone you don’t want to miss personally and professionally!!”
Rev. Judy Hawn, Associate Pastor
First Methodist Church, Athens, Texas
“After my most recent attendance of a presentation by Dr. Shellie O’Neal, she has become one of my favorite story tellers. Shellie is articulate and heart-warming as she portrays her character. Now, I can never, ever forget the faith, sacrifices, and endurance of Susanna Wesley!”
Dr. Marylyn Wright, EdD
Professor of Music,
Trinity Valley Community College, retired
“Shellie O’Neal’s one-woman shows are entertaining, educational and inspirational, as well as being beautifully written and performed by her. She has done her Fanny Crosby show at two churches I have served. The congregations were overwhelmed by the story and the way it was told and sung by Shellie. When I learned she had a new show presenting Susanna Wesley, I knew I must have her come perform it for Heritage Sunday at the church I currently serve. Another amazing production! One of my parishioners said she had heard about Susanna but came to know her through Shellie’s portrayal. It is wonderful to see these powerful women of faith come alive in Shellie.”
Rev. Mary Gean Cope
First United Methodist Church Ferris, Texas
“It is an honor to recommend Dr. Shellie O’Neal’s excellent one-woman show about Susanna Wesley, written, produced and performed by Shellie. Dr. O’Neal’s show demonstrates her many talents in research, acting, singing and authentic period costuming.”
Twink Ross
Director of College Relations and Services, 18 years of service to Panola College, Carthage, Texas
“Dr. Shellie O’Neal brought to our congregation a quality, inspirational, and entertaining presentation on the life of Susanna Wesley. I highly recommend Dr. O’Neal and her theatrical presentation.”
David Yarbrough, Minister of Music
Central Baptist Church, Carthage, Texas
“Dr. Shellie O’Neal’s latest one woman play, The Life and Ministry of Susanna Wesley, is a complete joy. It gave me a wonderful understanding of Susanna Wesley. Dr. O’Neal, through both delightful story and song, channels Susanna Wesley for her audience.”
David Penque, retired English teacher,
Frost High School, Frost, Texas
“Shellie O’Neal’s The Life and Ministry of Susanna Wesley is a tribute to the extraordinary life of a woman often called the “Mother of Methodism.” Through narrative and song, O’Neal tells the story of a seventeenth-century wife and mother who, despite profound hardships, extended her influence far beyond the expectations of domestic responsibilities. One need not be familiar with the Wesleys to appreciate, or even be inspired by, Susanna story. O’Neal’s one-woman show reminds us that intellect, conviction, and faith in any era can leave a lasting mark on history.”
Richard Lancaster, Professor of English,
Western Texas College, retired
“Shellie O’Neal’s storytelling is well-researched and artfully crafted. Her Susanna Wesley is authentic, moving, and informative. Audiences will be delighted and engaged as they as they are transported to a previous century. With just a few props and a little time, we meet Susanna and are inspired by her life thanks to the dedication and creativity of this playwright.”
Reverend Kristin Rockwell
Cedar Creek Lake United Methodist Church
“Shellie O’Neal’s portrayal of Susanna Wesley is truly a masterpiece. She makes you feel as if you are living through the trials and triumphs of this amazing lady. Not only is it historically educational, but seeing how God worked through Susanna’s life makes it extremely inspiring.”
Toni Biggs, retired teacher,
Carthage ISD, Carthage, Texas, 25 years of service
“Dr. Shellie O’Neal is absolutely amazing! Her one -woman show, Content to Fill a Little Space: the Life and Ministry of Susanna Wesley, is such an inspiration. Her tribute to the “Mother of Methodism” is extremely moving, spiritually uplifting and encourages us to never lose faith. It is truly a blessing to see this performance by the incredibly gifted and talented Dr. Shellie O’Neal.”
Mary Ella Sherman
President, Carthage Book Club
