The Murray State News

Issue date: 11/21/08 Section: Features

Media Credit: Lauren Lanham/The News The cast of 'Godspell' performs a group number. The musical is based on the Bible chapter of Saint Matthew and tells the story of the life of Jesus.

Spiritual songs and hymns are often integrated into church services, but incorporating religious elements into musical theater productions is not quite as common. "Godspell," however, does just that.

Directed by David Balthrop, "Godspell" opened last night and runs at 7:30 p.m. today and Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday in Robert E. Johnson Theatre. General admission is $12, faculty and staff is $10 and students are free with their Racercard.

The musical is based on the Gospel according to Saint Matthew, telling the life and story of Jesus Christ through song and dance.

Conceived, written and originally directed by John-Michael Tebelak, with music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, "Godspell" hit Broadway in 1971. Since then, productions have varied in character names, settings and costumes.

Only one thing is certain about the production: It isn't what you might expect.

In fact, Felicia Gammon, junior from Hawesville, Ky., said the production is completely opposite of what people might expect.

"It's a very funny show," Gammon said. "We interact with the audience a lot. It's mainly that the whole time. We're either in the audience, singing to the audience or pulling people up to dance with us. I'm sure there will be audience members on stage."

Paul Corder, senior from Hardinsburg, Ky., said that versatility attracts many to the show.

"This show has been done many different ways," Corder said. "I think the beauty of this show is that it's open to interpretation."

Corder said people of all faiths are able to appreciate "Godspell."

"It has the possibility of being a very spiritual experience even if your spirituality isn't of the Christian faith," Corder said.

It was the contemporary nature of "Godspell" that attracted Corder to the musical.

"Everything I've ever done has been classic musical theater," Corder said. "I thought it would be nice to step out of the box and try something different."

Danielle Gosselin, senior from Westfield, Mass., said the show is different than previous Murray State productions, though that wasn't the reason she auditioned.

Continued...

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