The Drama Club of Calvary Chapel High School
is excited to present Godspell, our first Broadway play.
Based on the Gospel of Matthew, Godspell is a joyful celebration
of the life and teaching of Jesus Christ and the salvation He brings.
Focusing on the theme of the foolishness of God confounding the wisdom of man
and presenting a fresh and down-to-earth view on usually sacred traditions,
Godspell became a major part of popular culture’s fascination with Christ
during the Jesus Movement of the 60’s and 70’s.
Inspired by the 1969 book The Feast of Fools by Harvey Cox,
which examines the tradition of the Medieval feast day
when clergy would dress as fools and peasants while lay people
would wear clerical robes symbolizing humility and the “first being last,”
the play originally used clown imagery to portray being a fool for Christ.
Godspell is unique among Broadway plays in that it is partially improvisational
so each production is a bit different making use of current cultural references,
local humor and cast input. Our version is set in a post-apocalyptic tech junkyard
where cynicism rules. Our “clowns” are tattered warriors and yet
they find the words of Jesus still prove as fresh and powerful
as they were in more innocent times.
Jesus has always been controversial to say the least, and this play about Him
is no different. It was a joy to work with our kids as we struggled to find
creative, loving, entertaining, and authentic ways to produce this material
in a fresh and powerful way. Every improvisational choice was made thoughtfully,
prayerfully, truthfully, and always in service to the law of love.
It was an honor to lead our young future leaders in finding their own voice
making ethical choices, and doing meaningful work.
My role as director was shared with my very brilliant student directors,
and it was an honor to help facilitate their skills and talents.
This cast worked diligently and tirelessly (well, sometimes we were pretty tired)
to bring you this production, and I am so proud to be associated
with this stunning group of actors.
We hope you enjoy our production of Godspell!
Cheers,
Michael Sewell
