Members of Waukesha South’s production of “Godspell” rehearse a scene in advance of its show, which begins Thursday and runs through Saturday. Pictured, (back row, from left), are Erin Steffes, Marilyn Feldner, Cat Lyons-Tarr, Erick Juarez, Guillermo Contreras, Matthew Cornale and Jack Sherman, front row, from left), Emily Sandoval, Rebekah Hoffmann, Nate Oldenborg, Elly Cleveland, Anyon Rettinger, Isaiah Reynolds, Antoine Dunham, Rebecca Switalski, Courtnie Miller, Abbie Cleveland, Lauryn Barrett and Annie Cornell. Laying face down as the piano is Josie Hall.
Waukesha South High School will perform "Godspell," a Broadway musical from the 1970s beginning Thursday through Saturday.
"The musical uses games and stories to teach about love and compassion," said Erin Richards, the musical's director. "Students learn to give thanks and take stock of their blessings so that they may create a better future. These timeless lessons are great for this season,"
According to a news release, the original version casts Jesus as "Christ the Harlequin," from Harvey Cox's "Feast of Fools" providing the context for Jesus as leader of a clown troupe, where celebration provides the lens through which individuals are able to envision social transformation and an alternative life.
South's production is set in an alley and the "clown troupe" wears eclectic clothing that is consistent with each person's character.
Jesus, played by Isaiah Reynolds, is still the troupe leader and his celebratory actions cause change, but he acts more as a coach creating a team to play the game of life when he is gone. Stephen Schwartz, the original writer of music and lyrics, has updated the score but to those who know the original, there are many favorites including "Prepare Ye, the Way of the Lord," "Day-by-Day," and "All Good Gifts."
Guillermo Contreras plays Judas.
Performances are at 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, with another show at 2 p.m. Saturday at the high school, 401 E. Roberta Ave. Tickets are $7 to 13 and may be purchased at the door or on-line at www.blackshirtplayers.weebly.com/news.
At a glance
What: "Godspell"
When: 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Saturday
Where: Waukesha South High School, 401 E. Roberta Ave.
Purchase tickets online: www.blackshirtplayers.weebly.com/news