Godspell - Theatre Three | 2.11.26
Photo Credit: Peter Lanscombe, Theatre Three Productions.Theatre Three Productions of Port Jefferson is currently producing the 1976 Broadway musical “Godspell” from February 21st to March 22nd. “Godspell” is a collection of parables and songs that give life to various moments in the life of Jesus Christ including Judas’ betrayal and the subsequent crucifixion, while highlighting the love and community Jesus strived to bring to the people. As a fellow theater person, I have seen several different productions of this show and have seen the parables interpreted and performed in a number of ways and I can confidently say that this was one of my favorites. It is so easy for this musical to be too comedic or too “dancey” - and this production was the perfect blend of all elements. I saw humor, I saw choreography and blocking presented with intention and precision, but most of all I saw love.
Leading this production in the role of Jesus was the multi-talented Keith Jones.
I say multi-talented because they *just* directed “Legally Blonde” at CM Performing Arts Center. They do it *all*!
I loved this casting decision! Jones was spectacular in this role – really understanding the temperament of Jesus while sounding quite nicely on Act 1's "Save the People" (which I found myself humming for a few days after) and Act 2's "Alas for You." Another standout moment was with Will Logan (who plays Judas) as they sang "All for the Best." Anyone who is even slightly familiar with Godspell will remember this song and this rendition is memorable. The choreography was fantastic and the chemistry between them was undeniable! Really great fun to watch. Logan's portrayal of Judas was spot on as well. Of course we all know how the relationship between Judas and Jesus goes down, and you could feel the tension and regret in the air when the betrayal came to pass. Act 1's "Prepare Ye (The Way of the Lord)" is another recognizable song and Logan's performance of it was great. This may have been the best I've heard from him!
Keith Jones, Will Logan, and company.Photo Credit: Peter Lanscombe, Theatre Three Productions.Thankfully, the rest of the company were equally impressive in their numbers. I don't even know where to begin! I'm always drawn most to the music in any production and there's a lot to be excited about here. "Day by Day" was sung by Sophia Del Carmen and in addition to her beautiful vocals, there was even a line or two sung in Spanish that I really appreciated. That felt new to me – I don't think that is something that is usually done and with today's climate, it felt extremely appropriate. Whoever made this decision, I commend you. Julianna Osburn led the beautifully sung “Learn Your Lessons Well,” where you could feel her love and appreciation for the Gospel of Matthew. "O, Bless the Lord, My Soul" was another highlight, sung by Angie Barrientos Gomez, in her Theatre Three debut. Welcome to the family! I'm looking forward to seeing more. Closing out Act 1 was "All Good Gifts" led by Noah Ryan and "Light of the World" from Jared Wofse. Ryan absolutely *soared* over this number. The high notes he hit were rich and beautiful and made me want to cheer well before the number was over. Wofse brought so much energy and brightness to his number as well; the perfect way to end the act.
Sadie Mathers & Keith Jones.Photo Credit: Peter Lanscombe, Theatre Three Productions.Opening Act 2 was the company’s youngest member, Sadie Mathers, leading a reprise of "Learn Your Lessons Well" which was beyond enjoyable. It is always such a pleasure to hear her sing! Mathers has a stage presence that is infectious – you can't keep your eyes off her. She brought so much energy and humor to the entire production and you'll be amazed at how magnetic she is at such a young age. I will never be bored of watching her perform. She is well past being a star in the making; she has already arrived! Angelina Miller and Jones sing "Turn Back, O Man" and it was another highlight in the show. Miller made her entrance through the audience and engaged with people all the way down to the stage and didn't miss a beat. Other singers might be thrown off with that level of audience interaction while moving & singing, yet Miller did so effortlessly. "By My Side" with Amanda Egenberger and Haley Saunders absolutely knocked my socks off. The harmonies these two hit gave me chills on multiple occasions; they moved hauntingly around the stage while delivering some of the smoothest vocals. At times, it sounded like just one voice – which I know from experience is not easy to do. Simply stunning. I'm also happy to say that Kiernan Urso is back on the Theatre Three stage singing "We Beseech Thee" and made me smile so much my cheeks hurt! He is another performer with an energy so bright that you can't help but smile. He handled all of the dancing masterfully and sounded great doing so – everything that we have come to expect from Urso and then some. Always and consistently fantastic.
Kudos to resident Music Director Jeffrey Hoffman for bringing this music to life. I've come to expect the best from him and always receive it. The set – designed by Randall Parsons – was incredibly appropriate and allowed plenty of space for the company members to create, while also bringing the band on stage which is always a welcome addition. I've said on multiple occasions that Theatre Three knows how to use their space so well and this was an impressive use of it. Additionally, I cannot get enough of those light boxes! They look amazing, they set each scene nicely, and are even used to show emotion; for example, when a character gets angry, they all turn red. Such a nice touch and creates a unique moment. Josie McSwane provided the choreography this go around and gave the cast plenty to work with. I've become a fan of her work for sure! Every person on stage looked good doing it, so kudos to her for giving them moves they can work with. Directing this production is Artistic Director Jeffrey Sanzel, who has a long history with this musical and it shows. When working on a show with religions and emotional attachments, it is so important not to treat characters like Jesus "like a character" – if that makes sense. It can't feel like a caricature and it certainly did not here. A job exceedingly well done.
Godspell is running at Theatre three until March 22nd and tickets can be purchased at the door, by calling the box office, or via their website at www.theatrethree.com.
Full company.Photo Credit: Peter Lanscombe, Theatre Three Productions.Cast:
Angie Barrientos Gomez
Sophia Del Carmen
Amanda Egenberger
Keith Jones
Will Logan
Sadie Mathers
Angelina Miller
Julianna Osburn
Noah Ryan
Haley Saunders
Kiernan Urso
Jared Wofse
Creative Team:
Directed by - Jeffrey Sanzel
Choreographer - Josie McSwane
Music Director - Jeffrey Hoffman
Production Stage Manager - Melissa Troxler
SOUND Design - Tim Haggerty
Scenic Design - Randall Parsons
LIGHTING DESIGN - Steven Uihlein
Technical Direction - Steven Barile, Jr.
Costume Design - Jason Allyn
Band:
Conductor/Keyboard - Jeffrey Hoffman
Guitar - John DeRicco
Bass - Dave Grudzinski
Drums/Percussion - Don Larsen
