The company of “Godspell” is gearing up for a show that is faithful to the original version while also refreshing material for today’s audience.
The show is presented by the Utica University Theatre Department in collaboration with the Notre Dame Blue and Gold Players and community members. Performances are set for March 19 – 20 at 7:30 p.m., March 21 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. and March 22 at 2:30 p.m. in Strebel Auditorium.
Rather than telling a strict narrative story, “Godspell” presents many of Jesus’ teachings as short parables and skits — often humorous, modern, and sometimes a little quirky, said Dennis Clark, the show’s director. The story unfolds through short scenes, games and teaching moments rather than dramatic conflict. They added a lot of impersonations to the characters and created “music” to back up much of the storytelling throughout.
“Be prepared to see how the cast creatively tells these stories in their own way,” Clark said. “Act I tends to be light and humorous. Act II shifts into something more reflective and moving as it approaches the crucifixion. The emotional turn can be surprisingly powerful because the audience has grown attached to the characters’ joyful community.”
Utica’s rendition of the musical was tailored to resonate with a broad audience. The script allowed room for interpretation and certain cultural references have been updated “within parables to ensure they connect with today’s viewers,” said Dakota Wayne, a senior who plays Judas and John the Baptist in the show.
“Our goal has been to create moments that different generations can relate to by incorporating references that both younger and older audience members will appreciate,” Wayne said. “This approach allows the show to feel fresh and accessible while still honoring the heart of the original material.”
Wayne said he was excited to find out he landed the two roles and said “Godspell” is especially meaningful to him because it’s his final show before he graduates in May. It wasn’t a show he was familiar with at first. However, he quickly fell in love with it.
One of his favorite parts of the show is the song “All for the Best” because it’s a lively number with upbeat energy and soft-shoe inspired feel.
“It begins as a playful duet between Jesus and Judas before the rest of the cast joins in, creating an energetic, almost circus-like atmosphere,” Wayne said. “It is incredibly fun to perform and showcases both the humor and heart of the show.”
The opening numbers are high-energy and playful, Clark said. There’s a lot of laughter, movement, and ensemble interaction. The tone is welcoming rather than formal.
“One of the strongest elements is the sense of togetherness,” Clark said. “The cast builds a visible ‘community’ onstage, and audiences often feel included in that spirit. There’s even a little audience participation.”
Sometimes, Wayne said, the cast must work hard to stay in character when improvisational moments become unexpectedly funny.
“Our director has encouraged authenticity and joy on stage, reminding us that genuine reactions can enhance performance,” Wayne said. “Learning to balance professionalism with spontaneity has been an enjoyable and rewarding part of the process.”
Tickets, available on Eventbrite, are $5 for Utica University students and Notre Dame Junior/Senior High School students and $20 for general admission. Tickets can also be purchased at the door but are cash only.
