|
 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.
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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 with photos by Hall and
Colleen Ayars] |
