Prepare The Way of the Lord
By Cate Rees-Hessel with Wes Hessel
Originally a masters thesis project in 1970 at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, 55 years later this iconic play continues to be popular. Musical Theater Works updated production of “Godspell” is the best rendition of this musical I have seen to date. The entire cast is extremely talented, with great rapport, loving and friendly, demonstrated with lots of hugs and sincere smiles. Audience participation during an onstage game of charades to teach the gospel is well done and fun. The use of a modern water cooler on the counter for John’s baptisms, and Jesus turning water into wine with the pour of a jug, are engaging touches that create a welcoming atmosphere on the stage which transcends into the audience.
The set brings to life a quaint, eclectic, and charming coffee shop; lighting is innovative and well crafted. The costumes are modern and trendy – pairs of glitzy boots and pretty pink pumps are mixed in with casual boho clothes – I especially love the blinged out running suit, pouring coffee hat, and a sweater featuring the Biblical numbers of completion (7) and new beginnings (8).
“Day by Day” and “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord” are show stoppers, energetic and upbeat. The company of lovely women and handsome men are very high energy with strong vocals. In the lead role of Jesus, Eldon Warner-Soriano gives a heartfelt and sincere performance, capturing the wisdom, joy, compassion, radical – not “religious” – unconditional love, and forgiveness offered to all humanity equally by Christ; a touch of whipped cream from his latte on the tip of his nose made me smile. Jacob Simon has the difficult dual role of two very diverse parts – John the Baptist in the first act and Judas in the second. With no costume change and a striking resemblance to what Biblical scholars believe the prophet John looked like, he still manages to create two completely different and believable characters, a daunting task at best, yet he nailed it with ease.
The gospel stories straight from the Good Book are handled with accuracy and aplomb, the parable of the prodigal son done particularly well; the Last Supper and crucifixion scenes are extremely powerful. A modern and honest display of truth and faith in tumultuous times, this musical is a balm for weary souls. As the prophecy of Isaiah 40:3 says, which John the Baptist quoted himself, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord…’”, “Godspell” prepares our hearts for the celebration of the coming of Jesus in the Christmas season. As a devout Christian (with a proud Jewish heritage) who loves the Lord, this show gave me hope and inspiration, but no matter what your beliefs are, this work is uplifting and entertaining – there is something for everyone. Don’t miss this delightful artistic theatrical production – you will be truly blessed. “Godspell” is only “Day by Day” through November 16th, however, so make a straight path to www.musictheaterworks.com for tickets or more information.
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