After months of hard work and determination, University of Wisconsin-Superior’s Theatre department will debut their spring production, “Godspell,” directed by Jessica Hughes, to a wide audience! “We were drawn to ‘Godspell’ because it’s an ensemble driven piece that is truly devised together in the room. It asks students to collaborate, generate material, and build the storytelling as a group, rather than simply stepping into predetermined roles,” said director Jessica Hughes. “It creates a space for creativity, ownership, and a stronger sense of community within the cast.”
Photo by Alicia Zoltowski
Godspell follows Jesus and his followers as they dance, act, and sing through parables from the Bible. In songs such as “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord” and “Light of the World,” each parable teaches a powerful moral–often about forgiveness, community, and kindness. “It shows how people can find hope even in their darkest moments,” said Gage Schmidgall, a sophomore playing John the Baptist/Judas in the production of “Godspell.”
The UW-Superior Theatre production of Godspell will look a slightly different from what is portrayed from other productions, so you don’t want to miss it. “Ours is supposed to be set in like a post-apocalyptic abandoned theater,” said Schmidgall, “I think it’s an interesting design.” There also will be different bits in the show that explore the development of media and highlighting the change of communication and technology. “We have one parable that takes place in like Shakespearean times…then, we do like a Wild West bit and a 1920s radio hour bit,” Said Schmidgall, “it just slowly continues to grow…I think it’s a really interesting and fun show…I’m just hoping that they (audience) get some entertainment, get some hope, get some fun out of it and get a song stuck in their head.”
Photo by Alicia Zoltowski
UW-Superior’s “Godspell” will open their doors on April 10, and will perform on April 11, 15, and 16 at 7p.m. as well as matinee shows on April 12 and 18. “This production is a great example of what the UWS theatre department values: student-driven storytelling. It’s also a fun, energetic show that’s full of some of the catchiest songs in musical theatre,” said Hughes. “We are excited to share something that feels both joyful and grounded in connection.” Tickets are sold online or at the box office before the show.
Gallery photos by Holden Law
