Review: 'Godspell' by Landmark Community Theatre

Pictured above: Members of the cast of 'Godspell' by Landmark Community Theatre Photo by Lisa Cherie

Thomaston, CT - Ed Bassett is the director of ‘Godspell’ by Landmark Community Theatre at the Thomaston Opera House. The iconic rock opera musical based on the Gospel according to Matthew was composed by Stephen Schwarz with a book by John-Michael Tebelak. ‘Godspell’ follows Jesus as he recruits followers and teaches them with parables through song and dance, ending with the Last Supper and Crucifixion. In this production Jesus’ messages of kindness, tolerance and love come most vibrantly to life.

These biblical messages were evident in the audition notice for this cast of ten; I remembered that it encouraged newcomers to apply and performers of all ages and ethnicities were strongly encouraged to come out. The 17 community theatre performers that were cast come from different generations and represent many ethnicities; for me, this was the best part of the production as I watched the final dress rehearsal that I was invited to attend.

In the two acts, all of the disciples took on a new message or song, including John the Baptist and Judas, played by Dr. Dan Fedrick, who represents both the first follower and betrayer of Jesus. This actor dressed in black leather did well with both roles.

The casting of the role of Jesus clearly made the point that Mr. Bassett was trying to convey in what he told me was in his director’s note, namely that “we are all Jesus.” ‘Godspell’ purists, and I would probably count myself to be a member of that group, might take issue with this choice, but I can say that it grew on me as the musical progressed. There were also some sly contemporary references that are traditionally inserted.

It must be noted that adding to my uneasiness was the fact that this production used the updated score written by Mr. Schwartz for the 2011 Broadway revival. I am on record as not being a fan of all of these musical changes, although I do like the new “Beautiful City.” These are my issues with the composer, but he is of course entitled to change his show as he chooses. The numerous rearrangements keep ‘Godspell’ lovers on their toes. This production opens with the challenge of “Tower of Babble,” while many do not. The second act opened with a reprise of “Learn Your Lessons Well” with one of the very talented cast members playing keyboard onstage.

I had to review this rehearsal without a printed program. I did recognize community theatre regulars Rhiannon Carta (dance captain,) Jane Coughlin, Loretta Fedrick, Aric Martin and Chrissy Flynn; the rest of the cast is made up of LCT regulars and newcomers including Ryan Holub, Steffon Sampson, Bronwyn Hamill, Dee Anderson, Nick Komons, Tessa Coleman, Christine Mitchell, Amanda Gross, Cheyenne Walent, Martha Irving, Robert Melendez, and David Nichols. ‘Godspell’ is about the formation of community and coming together to create a “Beautiful City” of man; this cast and production team succeeded in doing just that. All of the singers handled the complex harmonies with ease and the ensemble visibly became a close community on the stage.

The stark set with wooden movable cubes allowed the characters to shine and the lighting was quite lovely. Costumes designed by Lori Poulin did not have the clownish vibe usually seen when the entire cast is young adults; these were joyous and colorful while still being flattering to everyone’s body type. Music direction by David Irvine, doing his 27th production of ‘Godspell,’ but the first time with the new score, was spot on; the musical numbers, like "Bless the Lord"and "Light of the World," filled the house with the help of some pit singers and the charming choreography by Emily Diedrich filled the stage.

Kudos to the director on a strong artistic vision of a classic and beloved musical that everyone should experience at least once. I encourage those familiar with the show to catch a performance of this unique production by a very strong cast at the Opera House.

‘Godspell’ opens Saturday, April 21 with performances on April 27-28 and May 4-5 at 8 p.m. and April 22 and April 29 and May 6 at 2 p.m. For more information on tickets and group sales, contact or visit the Box Office at 860-283-6250, at 158 Main Street Thomaston, or go to www.landmarkcommuntytheatre.org.

Nancy Sasso Janis has been writing theatre reviews since 2012 as a way to support local theatre venues and she posts reviews of well over 100 productions each year. In 2016, she became a member of the Connecticut Critics Circle. She continues to contribute theatre news, previews, and audition notices to local Patch sites. Reviews of all levels of theatrical productions are posted on Naugatuck Patch and the Patch sites closest to the venue. Follow the reviewer on her Facebook pages Nancy Sasso Janis: Theatre Reviewer and Connecticut Theater Previews and on Twitter @nancysjanis417