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Godspell by Granite Hills Acting Workshop The archaic language found in the King James Version of the gospel can feel a little stiff, so in 1971 (the same year Jesus Christ Superstar came out), writer John-Michael Tebelak and composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz teamed up to give the gospel of Matthew a fresh, funky facelift – the hit musical Godspell. With a lively score and a pliable script that allows for creative new interpretations, each production tends to be filled with both great energy and uniqueness. Granite Hills Acting Workshop, under new director Jim Chatham, brings great vibrancy, fun, and poignancy to their current version of Godspell. After baptism via spray bottles, the charismatic Jason Araujo leads the way as Jesus, teaching his parables about mercy, loving your neighbor and your enemy, and the hypocrisy of making a flagrant show of your righteousness in front of others. The humor is exceptional – especially in the form of Amanda Maples who is a riot throughout as she shows that even the not-so-quick can get the message, gives a hilarious rendition of the snappy Learn Your Lessons Well, leads the company along with Sarah Vincelett and May Wheeler in the rockin’ trio O Bless the Lord My Soul, and leads the cast again with Sarah near the end with their beautiful By My Side. Other highlights of this one include All For the Best that features some purposely awful dancing (I assume it’s on purpose!) recognized by some of the cast sitting on the sidelines who raise up three separate signs to create the self-deprecating line “We – Can’t – Dance!” Brandon Hitson is a hit as the bungling son who splurges his wealth and then comes home to dad for forgiveness. Gina Goodman and Ron Nord add their great vocals to Turn Back O’ Man and All Good Gifts respectively. And the entire ensemble gets a chance to shine singing-wise and dancing-wise with the upbeat, loosely choreographed We Beseech Thee, which leads us to the edge of the conclusion so strikingly and powerfully displayed with the crucifixion.Hitting all emotions and with such a talented group, this is a highly recommended way to brush up on the Bible! Performed through June 5, 2004.
~ Cast ~
Peggy: Sarah Vincelett Sonia: Gina Goodman Gilmer: Amanda Maples Jesus: Jason Araujo John the Baptist/Judas: A.J. Porter Jeffrey: Josh Fox Lamar: Ron Nord Dancers: Katy Habib Ashley Fuglseth Rickie Hendrickson Kara Blomiley Herb: Brandon Hitson Robin: Danielle Holbach Joanne: May Wheeler Director: Jim Chatham Assistant Director: Danae Goward Stage Manager: Barbara Keeler Sets: Richard Mayer Lights: Seth Williams Sound: Andrew Riley |