Lincoln Community Theatre Presents the Uplifting Musical Godspell

 

[June 20, 2024] 

Lincoln Community Theatre (LCT) opens its 2024 summer season this week with a colorful, exuberant version of the beloved and inspirational musical Godspell. Created by John-Michael Tebelak with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwatz (also known for the musicals Wicked, Pippin, and Children of Eden), Godspell is based on the biblical book of Matthew. The musical debuted off-Broadway in 1971 and features popular songs such as “Day by Day,” “Light of the World,” and “All Good Gifts.” LCT’s version is directed by local veteran director Tim Searby and accompanied by accomplished musician Julie Kasa.

The Lincoln Community Theatre website explains that “Godspell presents a contemporary reimagining of the Gospel of Matthew. Led by John the Baptist and Jesus, the characters engage in a series of parables, songs, and interactive scenes that convey messages of kindness, compassion, and understanding. Through storytelling and song, Godspell emphasizes the importance of love and forgiveness in the face of adversity.”

This production is Searby’s sixth time directing this beloved musical. Searby says, “The older I get, the more joy I find in this show. The more I direct it, the more joy I see in the actors.” This staging of Godspell features a cast ages 13 to 67 with stage veterans as well as newcomers to musical theater. Searby states, “This production with its multi-generational cast has brought excitement and adds a different dimension to the show. It’s been so fun to watch.” He adds, “I have done this show over and over and I never get tired of the music or the script.”

Jeff Prince plays the lead role of Jesus and Douglas Drake plays John the Baptist/Judas. The ensemble features Cameron Wilmert, Wyatt Ulvestad, Abby Smith, Derry Dalby, Caleb DeJarnette, Lauren DeJarnette, Marin Crombie, Cari Wilmert, Faith Palmer, Julie King, Kambrea McCree, Claire Conrady, Stephanie Hall, Curt Schleich.

The pit orchestra includes Joseph Kuhlman, John Stein, Isaac McGee, and Andrew Hite. The crew is staffed by Propsmistress Jill Voyles, Sound Designer and Technician Devin Vannoy, and Costume Mistress Dr. Kristen Green.

Jeff Prince, in the role of Jesus, joins LCT on stage for the first time after years of helping with set design and construction, including the current Godpell set. No stranger to musical theater, however, it is his seventh production of Godspell, although this time as Jesus after performing the role of John the Baptist/Judas the previous six times. What keeps him coming back to this show? He explains that his first Godspell was in 1994 with director Phil Funkenbusch at New Salem and he fell in love with the music. Anytime Funkenbusch asked him after that he “jumped at the chance.” He says, “Now being a few years older for this production, I still love the music. It’s more about the message and letting people hear it.” He also notes the wide range of ages in this particular cast: “It puts a different spin on the show and I really like what it says about the story and how it can be told.”

Performances of Godspell are June 20-22 at 7:30 p.m. and June 23 at 2:00 p.m. on the Dan “Mac” McLaughlin Stage in the Lincoln Community High School auditorium. All tickets are general admission and available at the door, $15 for adults and $10 for students. The box office opens one hour before show time and the theater doors open 30 minutes prior to the show.

Join LCT this weekend for this heartfelt and uplifting show about love, hope, and community presented by a talented local cast, crew, and orchestra!

[Stephanie Hall]