Christian Youth Theatre gives a makeover to classic 'Godspell'
A new generation is discovering musicals like "Godspell," and the result is a fresh new approach to the show performed by Christian Youth Theater, a national theater arts program for children.
The group, based in DuPage County, will present its take on the well-loved musical in seven shows starting at 7 p.m. today at Timothy Christian High School, 188 W. Butterfield Road, Elmhurst. All performances are open to the public and advance tickets are recommended.
"If you've enjoyed 'Godspell' in the past, this is a fresh version," said Christie King of North Aurora, director and choreographer. "The setting is contemporary, in front of the Art Institute in Chicago, with lots of comedy, great dancing and great music. It's very joyful, and that's something we need today."
"Godspell" debuted off-Broadway in 1971. The script is based on the parables told in the Gospel of Matthew, and the song "Day by Day" became a Billboard hit, thanks to the show's popularity.
While the script was written for a cast of just 10 performers, the Christian Youth Theatre show includes 90 young people ages 8 to 18. Cast members come from communities throughout DuPage and Kane counties. The lead role of Jesus will be performed by Kenny King, 16, son of Christie and a student at Aurora Christian High School.
As director, King brings 20 years of theater experience to the show. She is also drama director at Ginger Creek Community Church in Aurora.
Christian Youth Theater is not affiliated with any particular church, but rehearses at Christ Community Church in Wheaton.
"We produce three shows a year, in addition to holding classes for children as young as 5," King said.
Christian Youth Theatre was founded in San Diego, and groups are located throughout the United States, including several in the Chicago area.
All productions are designed to be family-friendly, King said.
"They're performed by kids for kids," she said.
The mission of the organization is to develop character in children and adults through training in the arts and by producing wholesome family entertainment that reflects Judeo-Christian values, King added.
"Godspell" will be performed at 7 p.m. today; 2 and 6 p.m. Saturday; 7 p.m. Thursday and Feb. 15; and 2 and 6 p.m. Feb. 16.
Advance tickets cost $9 for children and seniors and $12 for adults. At the door, tickets cost $11 for children and $14 for adults. On Feb. 14, family night, tickets are $8 each for all family members.
To purchase tickets, visit www.CYTChicago.org and click on "Godspell."
If you go
What: "Godspell"
When: 7 p.m. today, Feb. 14 and Feb. 15; 2 p.m. Saturday and Feb. 16; 6 p.m. Feb. 16. (6 p.m. Saturday show is sold out).
Where: Timothy Christian High School, 188 W. Butterfield Road, Elmhurst
Cost: Advance tickets cost $9 for children and seniors and $12 for adults. At the door, tickets cost $11 for children and $14 for adults. On Feb. 14, tickets are $8 each for all family members.
Details: (847) 516-2298 or www.cytchicago.org
The cast
Aurora
Ryan Hayes, Dana Norris, Lana Norris
Bartlett
James Adamski, Jacqueline Stuckert
Batavia
Johnathon Link
Bolingbrook
Rachel Myers
Carol Stream
Hayden Ashley, Ben Hooson, Joey Hooson, Marianne Hooson, Tyler Herbst, Cory Slowik, Jeremy Wagner,
Clarendon Hills
Marissa Allen
Downers Grove
Alex Enzbigilis
Elmhurst
Kate Burnier, Liz Burnier, Abigail Newell, Leanna Newell, Laura Thoresen
Glen Ellyn
McKenzie Bridgman, Nicole Darnall, Sequoia Hayward, Kate Wild
Hampshire
Zachary Holmer
Lisle
Teagan Johnson
Lombard
Stephanie Kornatz, Jessica Ludena, Cliff Martin
Monee
Aaron Mikottis
North Aurora
Kenneth King, Teah King, Alex Molica, Gabrielle Molica, Alex Nott, Clay Nott, Hunter Nott, Jordan Nott
Naperville
Erika Bandemer, Brooke Hayley, Clay Hayley, Page Hayley, Kaitlyn MacIntyre, Jacqui Michel, Zach Michel, Nicole Rizzo, Marissa Schmidt
Oak Brook
Annie King, Emily King, Sarah King
St. Charles
Katie Walls, Jack Wartman
Sugar Grove
Kate Aguado, Tim Aguado, Lindsay Spencer
Warrenville
Emilie Hanlet, Lindsay Hedl, Aiden Olsen, Kirsten Olsen, Noah Olsen
Wayne
Dylan Zito
West Chicago
Christopher Jordan, Kai Libby, Kali Libby, Karina Libby, Carly Turner, Dustin Turner, Natalie Turner, Annie York, Caroline York
Wheaton
Alana Areyzaga, Torrey Benware, Heather Bonga, Daniel Church,Kaylie Church, Lynne Church, Sarah Church, Andrew Coopman, Madeleine Dorren, Emily Lisle, Jonathan Love, Caroline Neidballa, Olivia Robin, Cody Rogers, Shayla Rogers, Alli Selvey, Lydia Sohmer, Claire Voelker, Jennifer Wood