Godspell

Prepare ye, the way of the lord! These are the familiar opening refrains of Stephen Schwartz's seminar musical theater classic Godspell. The show done by many a high school, college, community theater, regional theater, and church group. It's filled with toe tapping music that can't help but sticking in your brain. The classic show is currently getting a revival for our current times over at The Circle in the Square Theater, and all I have to say is bless the Lord my soul!

I was very wary going into the theater because (having played Jesus in an aforementioned community theater production a number of years ago) I somewhat understand the essence of what makes Godspell enjoyable for audiences (other than the great songs). It's a camaraderie between the actors and the audience. Godspell is a show that has always thrived on the creativity of it's actors. There is many a place for improvisation and ad libbing. Too often, the audience is excluded from the joke while the performers seem to be having a great time of themselves.

Happily I report this is not the case with the current Godspell. From the opening (which I have never seen performed before now) which brings new clarity to the piece, you can tell you are for something exciting. Each and every actor brings something fresh and exciting to the table.

Lead by Hunter Foster (from Weeds) as Jesus, we are presented with an energetic bunch of young people with an exuberance befitting the piece as well as this particular production. Gone are the harlequin face paint and superman shirts of old (though a slight homage is made) and in comes a Jesus that is everything you would want him to be.

Oh Bless the Lord My soul, By my side, and Beautiful City are particular standouts in this production, though every musical number is absolutely fantastic in my opinion. The book scenes are also extremely well done. Uzo Akuba is particularly wonderful in all of her scenes as is Lindsay Mendez. The only weak link for me was Judas, He seemed to be overindulging himself with the score and I didn't find anything special in his scenes either.

The set, costumes, lighting, and special effects are also brilliant. Now, some purists may think that part of what made Godspell special was it's simplicity. I understand that. But we can't just keep doing shows the way they were originally done every time we do them. We need to bring fresh perspective to them otherwise they become redundant.

This Godspell has new, fresh orchestrations that make almost every song ready for the radio (as did the original production at the time). Do not miss this production! Hunter Parish leaves on April 14th to film the 8th season of WEEDS, but the show continues on with Corbin Blue. Tickets are currently on sale through January of 2013.