Review: GODSPELL is a Rock Musical with Spirit at Virginia Samford Theatre

"Godspell" originated in the late 60's as a trippy, rock and roll, free love "Jesusical." The hybrid of a rock musical and the New Testament. John-Michael Tebelak's story combined with iconic Broadway composer Stephen Schwartz gave way to a signature piece of musical theater of the 70's. Brick by Brick Arts has brought "Godspell" to Birmingham for limited time only at the Virginia Samford Theatre.

"Godspell" is a rock and roll expression of the story of Jesus's adult years without thumping a Bible over your head. If religion is Kryptonite to you, don't worry. This is musical theater not a Pentecostal sermon. The touching music of the show highlights love, obtaining inner peace, embracing who you are, and looking out for your brothers and sisters. You will enjoy memorable songs that capture your heart. If you have never seen the show you may of already heard songs "Day by Day", "Turn Back, O Man", "By My Side" or "God Save the People."

The flower child feel is still present. Nirvana t-shirts and blue jeans are present more than tie-dyed bell-bottoms. This production is meta; set in a modern day theater and the actors are playing actors in the show of Jesus's life . The smooth pacing flows well from one musical number to the next. Director Jeff Walker leads this big cast in a modest space. Moving so many people on stage works for they interact with each other as a collective. The staging successfully brings charm and supports the players as they sing.

Heaven sent and powerful vocals are delivered by Duke Cleghorn, Brad Steele and Chelsea Orr. Hilarious deliveries by Emilly Perry, Alex Belli and Ashlyn Bondurant bring laughs in abundance. Blane Freeman as Jesus suffered from extremely low projection and volume. I was in the second row and was struggling to hear him. That simple adjustment will give due diligence to a beautiful and emotional voice. The band is tight and supports the singers with a 70's rock flair.

This production hits the marks and captures the emotions (high and low) found in a contemporary version of Jesus's life, betrayal and death. If you are one with acceptance and love in your heart, it will touch you with great songs. No matter your beliefs.

Brick by Brick Arts

"Godspell"

Music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz

Director - Jeff Wilson

Music direction - Brad Steele with Duke Cleghorn

Choreography - Jenna Bellamy

CAST- Blane Freeman, Brice Armstrong, Ashlyn Boundurant, Cadley Jackson, Emily Perry, Alex Belli, Duke Cleghorn, Clark Maxwell, Catherine Renda, Alex Binion, Aaron Coleman, Chelsea Orr, Brad Steele

Brick by Brick Arts at

Virginia Samford Theatre

1116 26th St S, Birmingham, Alabama 35205

July 12th - 14th 7:30p . (SATURDAY PERFORMANCE - SOLD OUT)

Sunday 15th (matinee at 2pm)

Tickets $15 - Online orders here)

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