Photo Flash: First Look at Brown Paper Box Co.'s GODSPELL

The Brown Paper Box Co. presents a one-of-a-kind, modern interpretation of Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak's GODSPELL. Using a cast of 10 actor-musicians, this beloved musical brings the Book of Matthew to life at Collaboraction's intimate Studio space in the Flat Iron Arts Building (1579 North Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, Ill) now through October 7th, 2012. Get a first look at the cast onstage in the photos below!

Based on the Gospel According to Matthew, GODSPELL - with a score by Academy and Grammy Award-winner and six-time Tony Award-nominee Stephen Schwartz (WICKED, PIPPIN) and book by John-Michael Tebelak - uses improvisation and contemporary themes to illustrate a message of kindness, community, and hope that still resonates today. Since its premiere in 1971, GODSPELL continues to electrify audiences with such instantly recognizable hits as "Day by Day," "Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord," and "Light of the World."

"We're setting our production in a mystical library study room," says director and designer M. William Panek (TO TREE, REEFER MADNESS! THE MUSICAL). "We meet our 10 characters in the midst of working on a project. Throughout their time together, the ensemble joins together as a community to tell the story of Jesus through music, emotional openness, and collaborative storytelling."

Don't expect juggling, clowns, or out-dated references in The Brown Paper Box Co.'s production of GODSPELL. Panek and his design team (including long-time musical director and collaborator Katie Colby) promise a one-of-kind rendition of this classic musical you'll only experience in Chicago. Panek declares, "We're treating this classic musical as a modern play with music. With our cast of 10 stellar actor-musicians, be prepared to see and hear GODSPELL in a way you never have before."

The cast includes T.J. Anderson ("Light of the World"/Synthesizer), Jeanne T. Arrigo ("By My Side"/Guitar and Concertina), Megan Ensley ("Learn Your Lessons Well"/Percussion), Veronica Garza ("Day By Day"/Guitar), Michelle Limon ("O Bless the Lord"/Percussion), Andrew Lund (Jesus/Piano), Jake Mahler (Judas/Guitar, Banjo, and Ukelele), Pavi Proczko ("We Beseech Thee"/Piano), Stephanie Rohr ("Turn Back, O Man"/Piano), and Nick Shoda ("All Good Gifts"/Percussion).

The production staff is composed of: M. William Panek* (Direction & Set Design); Katie Colby* (Musical Direction); Daniel Spagnuolo (Choreography); Eric Phillips (Lighting Design); Ian James Anthony* (Properties Master); Anna Schutz* (Production and Stage Manager); Michelle Kritselis* (Dramaturg); Patrick J. Butterfield* (Casting Associate); John Tallman (Sound Design); and Charlie Sheets* (Graphic Designer).

Founded in 2009 and based in Chicago, The Brown Paper Box Co. creates thought-provoking and accessible theatrical experiences without the glitz of overproduction. This scaled-down approach allows our artists to deliver an elevated focus on the text.

* Denotes The Brown Paper Box Co. company members

Tickets can be purchased through www.brownpaperbox.org.

Photo Credit: Chad Shelton

Andrew Lund (Jesus), Jake Mahler (Judas/John) and the ensemble

Andrew Lund (Jesus) and Jake Mahler (Judas/John)

Pavi Proczko ("We Beseech Thee") and the ensemble

Jake Mahler (Judas/John) and Andrew Lund (Jesus)

Stephanie Rohr ("Turn Back, O Man") and the ensemble

Stephanie Rohr, Pavi Proczko, Veronica Garza, and Andrew Lund