The international music theatre favourite Godspell is set to return to Melbourne to take audiences on a heartfelt and exhilarating ride of peace, love and joy at Arts Centre Melbourne’s Fairfax Studio from 25 October to 6 November 2016.
Directed by Glenn Elston, Musical Direction by Lucy O’Brien, and Choreography by Sue-Ellen Shook, Godspell features a stellar cast including Mark Dickinson, Bonnie Anderson, Christopher Southall and Louisa Fitzhardinge. The production also feature the star of the original Australian production, Colleen Hewett – as a special guest of the Melbourne season.
Based on the story behind the Gospel of St Matthew, Godspell dramatizes the final days of Jesus Christ, featuring rock and roll music set to lyrics from traditional hymns and is a celebration of humanity. The musical features the song Day By Day – which became a smash hit for Hewett in the 70’s, as well as classic hits such as By My Side, Prepare ye The Way Of The Lord, Save The People and All For The Best.
“Godspell has been a big part of my life and it’s fabulous to be part of the reimagined production in 2016,” said Hewett. “I’m especially pleased to be appearing with this wonderful young cast because I love it when young new talent gets a go. Over the years I have met so many people who saw the original production and I hope they will all come and relive it all over again.”
While the funked up production’s premise remains faithful to the 1971 off Broadway original, this version of Godspell has been reimagined to incorporate the band and cast into one creative community on stage, and also includes a plethora of contemporary additions including street dance and urban acrobatics.
Originally conceived by renowned American playwright and director John-Michael Tebelak and composed by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked / Pippin), Godspell hit off-Broadway in 1971 and came to Melbourne soon after opening – boasting over 500 sold-out performances from 1971 to 1972.
Godspell Reimagined
Fairfax Studio – Arts Centre Melbourne, 100 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne
Season: 26 October – 6 November 2016 (preview: 25 October)
Information and Bookings: www.artscentremelbourne.com.au
Image: Godspell Reimagined (supplied)