Laughs, cries and betrayal, with some cool, upbeat songs in the mix, is what folks can expect to see at the upcoming show this week at Delta Center Stage.
After 38 years, DCS is bringing back, “Godspell,” the classic musical celebration of the life of Christ.
What started out as a script of only 11 characters, Director Robin Kelly decided after the auditions to add more characters to the show.
“The script was only written for 11 people but when auditions came around, everyone was so eager to do it that we decided to keep everyone. So now the show has over 30 people involved,” Kelly said.
“Godspell” is a musical composed by Stephen Schwartz. The show opened off-Broadway in May 1971, and has since been produced by multiple touring companies and in many revivals.
The story is about a small group of people and disciples that helps Jesus Christ tell different parables by using humor, games and storytelling techniques. The story of Jesus is being told from a vivid, stern and heart warming perspective. Moments like the Last Supper and the Crucifixion, shows off Jesus’s messages of kindness, tolerance and love.
Kelly said that this musical is relevant in this day and age now more than ever.
“‘Godspell’ is even more relevant today than when it was first written. With all of the divisiveness and separation in today’s world, “Godspell‘s” message is inclusiveness, acceptance and a reminder that we should all love our brother,” Kelly said.
The curtain opens at 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. Sunday’s matinee starts at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students or youth under the age of 16. Tickets can be purchased from any cast or crew member, or at Bass Offices, 323 S. Main St., Montage Marketplace or online at deltastage.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the door.
Putting the show together
With only four weeks to rehearse, Kelly said her favorite part of the process has been seeing everything come together, and she can’t wait until the audience sees all of their hard work.
Acting the role of Jesus, Elijah Peppers said that performing his role feels weird, yet rewarding.
“It is very weird because the title holds much weight and is portrayed in a different way from which I am used to,” Peppers said. “But this play shows the ups and downs of Jesus’ life and should be taken from a lighthearted point of view.”
Paul Cordell, who plays one of the disciples, said his favorite part of the show is hearing his son, a fellow cast mate, sing the song, “All Good Gifts.”
“I want the community to come and enjoy the show and see Jesus’ story from a different standpoint and support our local theater,” Cordell said.
Acting as one of “the people,” Johnathan Burnette said he loves that the show features a black Jesus.
“I love the fact that Elijah can sing really well,” Burnette said.
Bailey Rowe, who acts as a disciple, said she thinks the show is educational and fun at the same time.
“I really think this a good play because it shows more to the story and it helps you understand the gospel of Matthew and the story of Jesus while grabbing your attention,” Rowe said.
Acting as one of “the people,” Ashely Adams said being in the show has felt like being a part of a family.
“Being in this play, around so many talented people, is like being apart of one big, talented, weird, quirky and full of life family,” she said.
Peyton Cordell, who plays one of the disciples, wants the members in the community to know to bring a box of tissues.
“This is the most beautiful, heartfelt and spectacular show I have heard of, let alone been a part of,” Peyton said.
Kylie Reed, one of “the people,” said her favorite part of the show has been doing it with some of her family.
“Be prepared for a show that will keep you on your toes,” Reed said.
Acting as a disciple, Sarah Taylor said there is one overall message she hopes theater-goers take from this musical: to love one another.
“I want to tell the readers and the people planning to come to the show to love one another because love is the answer,” she said.
