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Parables take center stage
Published 4:23pm Thursday, October 29, 2009The local college theater department is mixing it up this season with its fall musical, “Godspell.”
Written in 1970 by Stephen Schwartz, the musical is a modern day twist on the Gospel of Matthew.
Since its creation, the musical has been performed countless times in a number of settings.
Minnesota State Community and Technical College – Fergus Falls (M State – Fergus Fall) is using the skatepark scene to create the set and feel for the musical.
“I wanted to give it a little bit of a modern, edgy feel,” said director Stefanie Gerhardson.
The skatepark symbolizes a sub culture in today’s society, Gerhardson said, which fits well with the musical’s general storyline.
The disciples are skateboarders who are shunned by regular society. When Jesus shows up and begins to share his message of love and acceptance, they begin to see the world in a new light.
“It illustrates Jesus forming a community with his followers, teaching them a new way,” Gerhardson said.
The plot takes the audience through the last supper, Judas’ betrayal and the crucifixion of Christ.
In terms of entertainment, the performance includes everything from clowning, acrobatics, charades and pantomime. The music touches on a number of genres, including jazz, country and rock.
The cast for the musical includes 11 actors, eight of which are disciples who go by their own names. Jesus is played by Jim Stenger, with John the Baptist and Judas performed by Dylan Olmsted.
The show kicks off at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30 in the M State – Fergus Falls’ Waage Theatre. Shows are also scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31, 2 p.m. Nov. 1 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 5, 6 and 7. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. For those who are 18 and under, tickets are $6 in advance and $7 at the door. Children five and under are free.
