In early 2012 I was selected to play the role of Jesus in the Troy Civic Theatre production of Godspell. It was a new and difficult learning experience that would eventually expand my singing range, add some diversity to my acting skills, and tested my stress management skills. The show was a huge success, and won three TANYS awards for ensemble, choreography, and direction. I am proud to have been a part of it.
Troy Civic Theatre Presents:
GODSPELL
From the Stephen Schwartz website:
Godspell was conceived and originally directed by John Michael Tebelak, and offers music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. One of the biggest off-Broadway and Broadway successes of all time, Godspell is based primarily on the Gospel According to St. Matthew. Featuring a sparkling, seminal score by Stephen Schwartz, Godspell boasts a string of recognizable songs, led by the international hit, "Day By Day." The show opened 5/17/71 Off-Broadway and transferred to Broadway in 1976. It ran for 2,124 performance off-Broadway and 527 on Broadway.
As the cast of actor/clowns makes it way through "Prepare Ye The Way Of The Lord," "Save The People," "Learn Your Lessons Well," "Bless the Lord," "All For The Best," "All Good Gifts," "Turn Back, O Man" and "By My Side," we, as audience members get to see the parables of Jesus Christ come humanly and hearteningly to life. The show also touchingly presents the story of Jesus' last moments beginning with the Last Supper.
The main story of Godspell is portrayed in the show's subtext--in the way the players interact with their leader, coming together to create a loving community.
"Godspell is one of the most ubiquitous properties in theater history," suggests Michael Portantiere, a writer for Theatremania.com. Among the reasons he sites for its popularity is the score by Stephen Schwartz. This score "...embraces more than a dozen terrific songs--including one in particular, 'Day by Day,' that became an international hit soon after the show premiered Off-Broadway some 30 years ago."
Why else is it so often performed and appreciated by local theatre groups? "Godspell calls for a relatively small cast of 10, and its presentational, comically improvisational style appeals to just about everyone. Perhaps the greatest tribute to the show's popularity is the fact that its unabashedly religious subject matter hasn't prevented it from receiving countless stagings in every conceivable venue."
Book by John Michael Tebelak
Music & Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz
Directed by Scott Truesdell Liebig
Musical Direction by Maria Elmer
Choreographed by Sadie Church
Cast:
Jeffrey Jene - Jesus
Michael Ciaravella - John the Baptist/ Judas
Carolyn Brockman
Rocky Bonsal
Sadie Church
Oliver Ord
Crystal Potter
Kyra Recore
Erik Searles
Megan Shove
Technical Staff:
Producer: Meghann Warner
Director: Scott Tuesdell Liebig - assisted by: Ashley France
Music Director: Maria Elmer
Choreographer: Sadie Church
Stage Manager: Jim Holmes - assisted by: Mackenzie Colwell
Properties Design: Miranda DiStefano - special props created by: Jeffrey Jene
Light Design: Robert Healey
Publicity: Ashley France
Friday April 13, 20 and 27 at 8:00 PM
Saturday April 14, 21 and 28 at 1:00 PM
Visit www.troycivic.org!
