Officials say Godspell is fresh, vibrant, completely engaging, and an exuberant production designed to lift sprits with its eternal story of friendship, loyalty and love.
Based on the Gospel according to St. Matthew, this modern retelling of the life of Jesus has touched the hearts of audiences around the world with its sparkling score filled with such iconic numbers as Day By Day, Light of the World, and Turn Back, O Man.
“Godspell is a truly captivating theatrical experience,” says Alex Mustakas, Artistic Director of Drayton Entertainment. “A contemporary twist with great music and audience engagement brings new appreciation to the beloved parables, while being both entertaining and inspiring”.
Jake Stern, who performed in the Youth Ensemble for Disney’s High School Musical at the Huron Country Playhouse in Grand Bend, makes his professional Drayton Entertainment debut in the role of Jesus.
Stern’s talent is undeniable as he brings the right amount of grace, reverence and charisma to this iconic role.
He is compelling right from the top, demonstrating the biblical teachings throughout the play to portraying the tragic last hours in the life of Jesus.
Graham Parkhurst switches flawlessly between the pure baptizer and the revolting betrayer in the complex dual role of John the Baptist and Judas.
Parkhurst’s performance is especially moving in “Prepare Ye,” a scene when Jesus and his followers are baptized.
A remarkable ensemble cast is full of explosive voices and the inspiring young talent of Lisa Michelle Cornelius, Michael De Rose, Michael Hogeveen, Stacey Kay, Ivan Lo, Alessia Lupiano, Rebecca McCauley and Janelle Murray.
All performances are full of youthful energy, requiring cast members to seamlessly move through one parable to the next using popular culture references to convey the biblical lessons for present-day audiences.
Topical references to Donald Trump, Lindsay Lohan, Charlie’s Angels, Star Wars, Gangnam Style, Beyoncé, and of course, St. Jacobs, create moments of levity and elicit plenty of laughs.
Leading this energetic young cast, director David Hogan succeeds in delivering a compelling mix of high-spirited music and cheerful story telling. The result is a gleaming rendition of this much-loved musical that is relevant for theatregoers of all ages.
The vivid technicolor set design is by D2 Entertainment. The lighting design by Jeff Johnston Collins complements the uplifting mood of the production while Miranda Hoffman’s smart costume design keeps focus on the evolving story.
From aching ballads to amazing hip-hop numbers, a terrific band brings the Tony-nominated score to life with music director Mark Payne at the helm. Together with Payne on Keyboards, Alex Bearg and David Klinger on Guitar, Dan Bearg on Drums and Mark Laidman on Bass, these talented musicians make a stellar five-piece band.
Hogan blends the creative elements of this upbeat production together with the help of choreographer Adele Mackenzie to create a bold production that instantly captivates audiences.
Run ends Oct. 20
Godspell plays until Oct. 20. Tickets are $40 for adults and groups of 20 or more are $32. Youth under 20 pay only $20. HST is applicable to all ticket prices.
Tickets may by purchased 24/7 online at www.stjacobscountryplayhouse.com; in person at the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse Box Office or by calling 519-747-7788 or toll free 1-855-372-9866.
