EGF Does “Godspell”

In Grand Forks, the live theatre productions of Red River and Central High Schools have gained a reputation for talented performers and solid production values, especially with musicals, but lately East Grand Forks Senior High School across the river has been flexing its entertainment muscles with pleasing results.

Last weekend, EGF Senior High put on their version of the popular Broadway show “Godspell.”

This modern pop-rock retelling of the New Testament is sometimes compared with “Jesus Christ Superstar,” which premiered just a few months later in 1971.

“Godspell,” however, takes a more laid-back and interactive approach with Stephen Schwartz’s music and lyrics than the pageantry and melodrama of Andrew Lloyd Weber’s “Jesus Christ Superstar.” Rather than stylizing the Roman-era Middle East with a modern theatrical, operatic flair, it is set in an even more stylized late 1960s-like environment of inner city street people who sometimes perform in and directly to the audience.

“Godspell” is always a timely show, especially around Easter and Christmas, but certain sections had even more resonance so close to the national elections. The angry “Alas for You” directed by Jesus to the hypocritical Pharisees could just as easily be applying to senators, congressmen, and other politicians who luxuriate in their social status and love to make rules for other people to follow.

Unlike most plays, (or versions of the Passion Play), “Godspell” has actors playing the characters of Jesus, John the Baptist, and Judas, but the rest of the cast use their own names during the show. Keenan O’Shea did a good job in the key role of Jesus, both dramatically and musically, if sometimes rushing the lyrics to a few of the songs a bit. Matthew Radi gave good support, first as John the Baptist, and later Judas.

Dramatic focus and intensity among the ensemble and other featured players varied, but there were several who stood out. Emma Katka demonstrated a strong stage presence throughout, and got a chance to shine with her solo of “Turn Back, O Man.”

Others of special note included Carly Flaagan, Kenna Jones, Stephanie Gagelin, and Sarah Peterson.

Director Wendy Swerdlow Pederson put together a commendable show with a large cast, and the four-piece pit band under the direction of Shelley Bares provided effective musical accompaniment.

Occasionally there were some microphone balance problems with some singers or chorus numbers harder to hear, but that is typical of any local theatre production.