The Hayes Theatre is thrilled to announce that a brand new production of iconic musical GODSPELL will be presented at Hayes this October, before transferring to The Art House Wyong in November.
Chosen as part of Hayes’ Artist-Led Program, GODSPELL will feature Billie Palin (HMS Pinafore, Dubbo Championship Wrestling) as Jesus, in a cast of 13 spectacular singers, actors, musicians, and improvisers.
The first major musical theatre work from three-time Grammy and Academy Award winner Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin), GODSPELL remains as unconventional and iconoclastic as when it premiered off-Broadway 50 years ago.
This dynamic new production will be led by Director Richard Carroll (Calamity Jane, Spamalot) and Musical Director Victoria Falconer (Lizzie, Once).
“This is a story about community, and that’s something we’re craving more than ever. We’re going to create a community that’s inclusive and celebrates individuality, vulnerability and connection,” said Director Richard Carroll.
Falconer is musical director and a member of the cast. One of Australia’s most versatile members of the theatre community, she is an award-winning music director, composer, cabaret artist, theatre maker and multi-instrumentalist.
“I believe Victoria Falconer is the most exciting, innovative and collaborative musical director working in Australia today, and I’m so excited to hear these solid-gold songs channelled through her ingenious creative vision,” Carroll.
One of the most progressive and innovative musicals in history, GODSPELL tells the story of a fractured, hostile and disconnected community that finds hope, common ground and understanding by embracing a message of radical love.
A modern fable that weaves together direct address, vaudevillian comedy, musicianship, improvisation, and superb pop and rock songs like Day By Day, All For The Best, Light of the World and Beautiful City – GODSPELL is a uniquely joyful and uplifting theatrical experience.
The cast in this exciting new production includes Stefanie Caccamo (Lizzie, Once), Jeremi Campese (Hamlet), Gillian Cosgriff (Harry Potter and The Cursed Child), Mae Li Cowell (Chicago), Alfie Gledhill (Cry Baby), Abe Mitchell (Macbeth, Monty Python’s Spamalot), Gus Noakes (Once), Chaya Ocampo (Ate Lovia), Billie Palin, Quinton Rich (The Deb) and Jane Watt (Spamalot).
“Each new production of GODSPELL has its own unique identity, sound, message and drive. I can’t wait to create those afresh with this exciting group of performers,” said Carroll.
“I hope audiences at GODSPELL are going to feel embraced and uplifted by this work in a way only live theatre can achieve.”
GODSPELL will play at the Hayes Theatre from 14 October – 6 November. For more information, visit: www.hayestheatre.com.au for details. Following its season at the Hayes, GODSPELL will transfer to The Art House Wyong with performances from 10 – 12 November 2022.
Image: Billie Palin stars as Jesus in GODSPELL – courtesy of the Hayes Theatre