WHY GODSPELL?
When we announced our Spring 2018 musical was going to be GODSPELL, for a while afterward, I was met with a common response from many people: “Of all the musicals out there, why GODSPELL?” While it may be true that there are many other, more popular musicals out in the world, there are very few that can actually help define a theatre program. In these early stages of the rebirth of Theatre Arts at St. Anthony High School, I felt that it was vital to establish from the beginning who we are and what this program is about. We are so privileged to be at a Catholic school where, in this Christian environment, we can integrate theatre and our faith. There are very few other theaters that cater to young people who can do this freely.
I believe God uses theatre as a very unique vehicle to bring us closer to Him. Theatre demands that we work together with a diverse group of people. Collaboration demands that we step outside of ourselves for a while and nurture relationships with others as we learn to connect deeply, actively listen, and build people up to be the best they can be. These are all ways of showing love for others, even when it is not the easiest thing to do. GODSPELL, at its core, is about how the love we share and the love we receive helps bring us closer to experiencing God’s love more intimately.
Theatre is not just about the performance that the audience sees in front of it. Theatre is about the time students spend in rehearsal with others growing through adversity and challenges, and learning from and loving one another. The performance is just the party to which the audience is invited to celebrate a period of spiritual growth, strengthening relationships, and individual character development.
All of this is why we are doing GODSPELL. We are laying the foundation for this program, so that generations of students will have a theatre arts program that provides them with meaningful experiences. My hope is that because our students participated in theatre, they will be better equipped with life, leadership, and interpersonal skills to make a positive impact in the world for Christ.
We are so excited to share this show with you and incredibly grateful that you chose to spend your time with us today.
Humbly,
Daniel Nakawatase
Theatre Arts Director
St. Anthony High School
