Godspell is more than just a play. It’s an experience.
I made a point to go on opening night, and I was so glad I did. Live theater creates such an energy onstage and off, and this production raises that level to something – well – of biblical proportions.
A horn (shofar?) is sounded, and then “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord” is sung as a joyous call to prayer. And then it happens…
Thanks to the awe-inspiring Ullmans, Jesus has made his second coming here in Emerson, New Jersey (naturally), and (played magnificently by junior James Nienstedt) he’s here to teach us his parables and encourage us to find our voices in the process. No stifling sermons, no fire and brimstone (okay, maybe a smidge), these lessons are played out by an array of vibrant characters operating within the walls of a colorful diner.
With set construction by our very own Dave Monchino and set design by Halle Lutrell, you feel as if you are watching the Gospels according to Matthew unfold in an actual functioning restaurant. It’s very easy to forget that you’re in an auditorium when the players are so invested and the set itself is quite convincing. I can’t say enough about how these actors utilize the space. There is constant motion, and intensity, but it never feels forced – just necessary. Jesus’ lessons do not fall on passive ears. Just as his parables are moving, so are his followers.
I cried a few times. I’m not ashamed to admit it. Certain lyrics touched my heart, and made me reflect on recent joys and sorrows in my life. “All Good Gifts” made me consider my daughter’s upcoming wedding, and – of course – it made me teary-eyed. Then there’s Judas (performed by Audrey Riquelme who – despite my really liking her as a person – actually made me frown when she became Judas). If you know what happens after those thirty pieces of silver have been exchanged, you’ll find yourself fall silent as… Well, let’s put it this way, I was not okay seeing James like that.
Nienstedt, who played a wonderfully outrageous Captain Hook in last year’s production of Peter Pan, is completely devoted to his role of Jesus. He has a simple earnestness that helps you feel his joy when his lessons are understood and his disappointment when his followers fall down or behind. His voice is pure and strong, and his opening number “Save the People” demonstrates his vocal and guitar-playing skills beautifully. It’s when he hands his guitar over to a man in the orchestra pit and says, “That’s my dad” that you have to wonder if he means Mr. Nienstedt or God himself. (That’s how quickly I bought into his performance.)
James is not alone up there on stage, and the talent shines brightly throughout each scene. Mia Woodward gives such a strong and lovely rendition of “Day By Day”, and I blame her for having this song stuck in my head. Add to that, she and other cast members sign the lyrics as they sing them! (Special thanks to ASL consultants Maynor Solorzano and Mashud Rana!) Then Haley Karathomas makes an entrance with a knowing voice and a fluffy feather boa as she warns, “Turn Back, O Man” while strutting down the aisle.
The energy Brandon Mathews brings to the stage is electric – just like his guitar! I saw him perform at EHS’s Coffee House a few months ago, and was duly impressed by his confidence and charisma.
It’s nearly a week later, and I still find myself singing, “Day By Day” with a smile, and “Turn Back, O Man” with some sashaying – just ask Mr. Martinucci.
Wait! There’s also a sing-a-long! And references to popular culture! And current events! And, and…
I want to say more about each actor and how some acted and played an instrument, like Savannah Dennehy with her ukulele, Giana Kim with her bass guitar, Brandon with his electric guitar, Sophia Rizzo with her flute, Jeffrey Adams at the piano, and Josh Varghese at the drums…
There’s so much more I want to say. I get excited just talking about and writing about this play, but I’m not the only one. I had a great discussion with several cast members yesterday, and just today I spoke with Leonard…
Oh my goodness. Stop reading this and just GO already! I beseech thee!
No matter what your belief system, Godspell will have you spellbound and thanks praising. GO!
SHOWTIMES:
FRIDAY (3/13) – 7:30 PM
SATURDAY (3/14) – 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM
