Godspell Shines Over Hop Stage

The Hopkins Drama Association showcased its talent yet again in its production of Godspell last weekend. This show is the musical version of the Gospel according to St. Matthew and outlines Jesus’s story from baptism to his crucifxion.

Godspell director Michael Calderone said, “The show is unlike most musicals in that there is not an obvious story line, but rather is a collection of the parables told by Jesus to get his lessons across. In addition, the songs don’t organically come out of the parables; rather, they illustrate other parts of Jesus’ teachings; which, I know, sounds churchy, but the songs are really amazing.”

Godspell is also diferent from other shows because of its versatility. “Since it was frst done in 1971, there was a real hippie feel to the show; very free form. Because of that, the director has the ability to adjust the show to the particular company or specifc events going on at the time of the production,” commented Calderone.

This production of Godspell focused on highlighting the social and economic divides present in America today. “It has been really interesting to work together and create a very meaningful show that attempts to bring out the true feelings of Americans today,” said Katie Broun ’19. Looking back on his experience, Holden Turner ’17 agreed: “I love the artistry in this production. More than any other show, we [pushed] a message, not a story, and everyone... accepted wholeheartedly the idea that we [could] make a positive statement with our show.”

Another unique quality of Godspell is that it showcased musical talents of the Hopkins community in addition to the theatrical elements. Unlike many other productions, this show featured a musical ensemble to accompany many of the songs. Kiarra Lavache ’18 said, “Other than the singing and dancing that most every musical has required, our cast [was] flled with other talents such as playing instruments and I love that we have found a way to incorporate a lot of them into the show.”

In addition to the creativity and hard work that went into Godspell, the community aspect of these productions helped to create the fnal product. “Te nature of the show, itself, is so welcoming and focused on being a group and enjoying being together that the cast almost always had a great time together. Tis feeling isn’t unique to Godspell, either. I’m a freshman, but the shows that I’ve been in so far always have the same welcoming, great experience,” said Elizabeth Roy ’20.

Godspell member Lionel Louis ’18 said, “At frst, you feel like a kid hanging out with other fun loving kids, but you come together to make art and you start to feel like a professional. Everybody cares so deeply for each other and the show, so we look out for one another and keep each other sharp. And, in the end, you have something to put on display and be proud of.”