A NOTE FROM THE DIRECTOR
Directing Godspell has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my theatrical life. I have been blessed to get to work with one of the most talented and truly cohesive casts imaginable. Each individual person brings such a unique and special talent to the ensemble but together they transcend into something truly magical. A lot of people ask why Godspell – it is done so often. I can only answer that Dare to Defy, as an organization, truly felt that this material was a great fit for our talent, this intimate space and has a truly unending appeal. My vision for this production is what would happen if the story took place today in a rundown park in downtown Dayton. A group of strangers, unconnected, absorbed in the tiny worlds allowed by their circumstances and involvement in technology are pulled out of that state of disconnectedness to fully experience something transformative. A charismatic, sincere teacher builds them into a community, expands their willingness to see each other, inspires the ability to learn through play, accept through love, feel hope and to then pass that on to others. To fully exist in their environment and to make the world a better place one small connection or contribution at a time. As with all mentors their teacher comes for a purpose to pass on the lessons, to help them feel joy, love acceptance and hope and then trust that even through the pain of separation and betrayal that they will cling to each other, love and hope and continue to pass on those “good gifts” on into the future! Thank you for taking this journey with us. Thank you to the cast, staff and crew for what was a very timely journey for me personally. I am in awe of your talents but more importantly your beautiful spirits. THANK YOU!
Becki Norgaard
