Famous musical to begin run Thursday
"Godspell," one the most successful musicals of all time, opens Thursday at the Opelousas Little Theatre for a three-week run.
"We have an awesome cast," said director Dana Reed. "The actors, the voices — it has excitement, humor, tender moments — it's all in there. It is impressive."
The play, with music by Stephen Schwartz and a book by John-Michael Tebelak, is a retelling of the parables of Jesus in a series of well-loved songs, including the hit "Day by Day."
The play first opened off Broadway in 1971, was made into a movie in 1973 and through revivals and various touring companies has never really faded.
Although the original play told the story through the eyes of the counterculture of the 1960s, over the years it has gone through a number of changes. This time won't be any different.
Reed said the play this time is set in a circus with a number of down-and-out performers finding new meaning through the messages of hope and forgiveness.
"You will not recognize our theater," said Reed, who said as you step through the front door you will be transported into a huge circus tent that covers the theater from floor to ceiling.
"We have acrobats, trapeze artists, an animal side show. We are using the theme that the world is a circus but the words of the gospels are still ever-present," Reed said.
Tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased in advance at Sebastien-Dupre Jewelers in Opelousas or at the door of the theater, located in South City Park directly behind the Central Fire Station on Union Street, the night of each performance.
"'Godspell' is one of America's truly unique art forms and one of the biggest off-Broadway and Broadway successes of all time," Reed said. "Come witness the character of these performers change permanently and positively by learning life and behavioral skills."
Cast members include Bradley Credeur, Duncan McBride, Hedrick Deshotel III, James LeCompte, Christian Noel, Kelsey Gardiner, Taylor LaCalle, Taylor Reed, Nariah Thomas, Melanie Soileau, Erika Stanford, Claire Vidrine, Neco Wallace, Ali Cravins and Jamie Green.
It is being directed by Dana and Taylor Reed with music direction by Walter Duncan McBride and Taylor LaCalle.
Providing the music for the host of memorable songs are Jamie Green, Duncan McBride, Melanie Soileau and Neco Wallace
"This production is a sight to behold and a sound to cherish," Reed said.
For more information, call Reed at 337-351-2591 or visit opelousaslittletheatre.com.
Want to go?
What: Opelousas Little Theatre presents 'Godspell'
Where: Opelousas Little Theatre, South City Park directly behind Central Fire Station
When: 7 p.m., Thursday, Friday and Saturday; July 24-26 and July 31- Aug. 2
• 2 p.m., Sunday matinees July 20, 27 and Aug. 3
Information: opelousaslittletheatre.com