Godspell

The current production at Mill River Players is "Godspell," with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by John-Michael Tebelak. Godspell is a loose account of the life and death of Jesus Christ. It was originally presented in 1971 Off Broadway, and then for a short time On Broadway, and lives on in the minds of many of us as one of the "hippie" musicals.  Godspell  is structured as a continuous stream of parables and stories, directly taken from the Gospel According to St. Matthew. It is sketch-like in nature, meaning that the show is particularly suited to improvisation and adlibbing .  Mill River Players director Chuck Petitbon has assembled eleven talented cast members, and his insight and talent is evident in this enjoyable production. With musical director Dan Zabinski  and his band members and choreographer Audrey Thompson, this production is well worth seeing.

The cast consists of Danielle Cameron, Mike Dube, Amanda Mann, Staci Morin, Diane Petit, Ed Cooney, Steven Dulude, Stephen Michelsson, Janet Lynn O'Hare, Audrey Thomson, and David Wieselquist.  The role of Jesus played by Mike Dube is an enormous role, and Mike has done an amazing job.  His interactions and parables are very convincing and I found myself focusing in on him probably because he has most of the lines which carry the story.  His costume is the traditional one used in other productions that I have seen - Superman outfit, with a red heart painted on his forehead.  Nice job, Mike!

Diane Petit, a veteran performer, was just wonderful in her role (her voice is amazing-and she had laryngitis that night!).  She has a musical number "Bless the Lord" which is very powerful with cast backup. 

Janet Lynn O'Hare caught my attention , especially in her solo "Turn Back, O Man - she did it so well! She went into the audience with a boa and teased and flaunted.

Audrey Thompson did a wonderful job with the choreography - especially on  Mill River's tiny playing area.  The actors moved around without bumping into each other.  I have choreographed there, and I only had four kids to move around - so I know it is difficult to stage with eleven on stage. Audrey also was in a group number "By My Side", with Danielle, Diane and Janet. Speaking of Danielle, she was a joy to watch, and her dramatic moments with Jesus was heartwarming.  Her stage presence was noteworthy.

Amanda Mann was another joy to watch -  she has a solo "Learn Your Lessons Well."  And Staci Morin, another veteran actress, has a beautiful voice which she demonstrates in "Day by Day."

Dave Wieselquist is performing for the first time at Mill River, and does an excellent performance, both vocally and acting.  He has a scene that ends the first Act that is excellent.  He also has a great Southern accent - and wears farmer jeans, which adds believability to his character.   In fact, ALL of the costumes by Marsha Petitbon were so authentic and creative.  Nice job !!

Ed Cooney has a commanding voice, and is a big guy who grabs your attention with "Prepare Ye The Way Of The Lord", which is the first solo number of the show.  His character of Judas in the end scene with Jesus at the Last Supper is very nicely executed.

Watch for Steven Dulude in the "We Beseech Thee' number - he's a powerful singer, and his acting and dancing were especially enjoyable.

Stephen Michelsson shines in his solo number "All Good Gifts" with the cast.  He is especially good at pantomime and facial expressions.

The Last Supper scene is really a divergence from the rest of the show.  It is dramatic, powerful, and poignant.  Mike did an excellent job with this scene, as did all the cast members .

This high energy cast will delight you with their pantomime and clever antics - so  don't miss  GODSPELL!  Reservations are required.

 Rating

Mill River Players
499 High Street
Central Falls, RI

February 15 - March 30, 2008

RESERVATIONS

(401) 721-0909