Arts & Entertainment Editor
Despite popular belief, the genius of acclaimed composer Stephen Schwartz has been ringing in the public’s ears on more than one occasion. His lyrics helped Elphaba defy the gravity of Oz, deftly apply the colorful brushstrokes to Pocahontas’ wind, breath life into the circus community of Jesus Christ…wait. What was that last one?
“It was all very interesting because I literally didn’t know anything about the story when we started,” continued sophomore Rachel Guth, starring as one of Jesus’ twelve disciples. “Actually we were reading Lord of the Flies at the time, and I ended up writing a bunch of my responses on Simon’s religious meaning.”
In fact Godspell, written and originally performed in 1971, has been interpreted in multiple ways since. The high school have chosen an elaborate circus theme to present the musical. Fellow disciple sophomore Annie Ludtke elaborates, “The circus theme adds flavor and plenty of energy. We have the theme to add fun, awesome sets and stand-out costumes.”
There is no doubt this “big top” environment also effects the characters themselves. “I basically think of myself as a flower child kindergarten teacher,” Dan said. “The show’s very similar to the “hippie” musical, Hair.”
“The show is really fun because it gives everyone an identity beyond “disciple #3,” Rachel continued, “Everyone has their own moment to shine.”
Freshman Anna Oxman is the perfect example of this individualization, “I’m a tightrope walker. My ballet history helps me with the dancing.”
But perhaps the largest transformation, in terms of character development, was placed on freshman Taylor Thompson as Judas. “It is a very difficult thing playing Judas, being the smaller, less controlling guy. My character needs to be “big” and I need to convince the audience that I can lead the circus.”
“Jesus and I begin as very brotherly and there’s a very strong connection,” Taylor continued. “But as the second act begins, I become less and less part of the community.”
This tension can be reflected in Dan’s favorite number, “Alas For You,” “It is the first scene where you see me change from the kindergarten teacher, to Jesus being betrayed by his disciples,” he said.
In the end this theatrical turmoil didn’t stop the cast and crew from becoming a community of their own. “The camaraderie among the cast is really positive and encouraging,” Annie said. “The freshman/sophomore play is all about learning the ropes of theater. The whole cast and crew are really supportive and patient.”
“The cast as a whole has really grown through this whole process, and I think many people have grown as actors,” Dan added. “Taylor, in particular, has made a huge improvement from the beginning of the rehearsal process to now. We both clicked very well actually, which was surprising considering the roles.”
And of course it’s never a piece of cake, or maybe in this case, a bowl of granola. “The high school is is very different from that of middle school in terms of the theater program,” Taylor said. “You actually need your show to be good. We work and we focus. Everything is very intense.”
Whether you’re a free spirit, devout churchgoer, lion tamer, or more likely just another student awaiting a fantastic production, Godspell has it all. And if you need one more reason to go, Taylor can convince you with four simple words, “The talent is spectacular.”
The show will premiere on November 18 at 7 pm, and show on November 18 at 2 pm and 7 pm.
Photos by Emily Brand
great visuals!