Judson to bring fresh perspective to 'Godspell'

Judson University's upcoming production of "Godspell" will live up to the musical's reputation as one of the most popular rock musicals of all time by featuring a live band on stage during the April 15-18 production at Judson's Herrick Chapel.

Performances will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 15 to Saturday, April 17, and 3 p.m. Sunday, April 18. Tickets are $12 for adults, $5 for students, $10 for seniors and groups of 15 or more, and can be ordered by calling (847) 628-1060.

"Godspell" is based loosely on the Gospels and parables of Jesus. This playful and poignant score by Stephen Schwartz of "Wicked" fame, includes such songs as "God Save the People," "All Good Gifts" and the international hit "Day By Day." Director David Hunter said that most importantly, "this is a story of one who cares about each individual at each moment in time with such love that it transcends the temporal. Brick-by-brick and heart-by-heart this story has the power to affect each individual by asking that we each change our hearts, souls, wills and desires if we want to be transformed by Jesus' core truths."

Created by John-Michael Tebelak as a college project in 1970, "Godspell" was rescored by Stephen Schwartz before moving to off-Broadway in 1971. The production then moved to Broadway in 1976 after becoming one of the longest-running off-Broadway musicals. When "Godspell's" run ended in September 1977, it had played for a total of more than 2,600 performances.

Hunter stresses that Judson's production will have a very fresh and contemporary feel in both its design approach and by allowing the actors to bring their own personalities to the characters through their staging and choreography.

"The energy in the room will be palpable," Hunter said. Performing revival versions of the songs, the live band will be in full view of the audience, as if the audience were at a concert in downtown Chicago. Featuring Judson University students, staff and faculty members, this one-weekend show is a must-see.

Performers include: Mike Nicosia, Joshua Hoegh, Melissa Hoegh and Larry Wild, all of Elgin; Christie Coleman of Kalamazoo, Mich.; Kali Moxley of Crystal Lake; Cathy Headley of Poplar Grove; of Elgin; Lynn Hammerlund of Lake in the Hills; Cherise Taber of Prophetstown, Ill.; Lynsi Bachman of Mahomet, Ill., Brittney Johnson of Graymont, Ill.; and Lela Delong of LaMoille, Ill.