ON THEATER: ‘Godspell’ more than a religious musical

With her production of “Godspell” opening at the Laguna Playhouse this weekend, Youth Theater director Donna Inglima stresses that the show reaches far beyond its roots in the Christian religion.”

“Godspell” is a timeless musical that, since 1971, has reached millions of theatergoers with its meaningful storytelling and uplifting musical numbers, Inglima declares.

“I chose to do it because it asks very important questions about leadership, self responsibility, compassion and love.”

The Stephen Schwartz/Jon Michael Tebelak musical is based on the Gospel according to St. Matthew, which the director concedes might be considered by some “a bit edgy” for the playhouse since it’s often seen as merely a “religious” musical.

“However,” she says, “our Youth Theater audiences will be pleasantly surprised at how applicable the play is to their lives, no matter their religious or non-religious philosophies.”

The music of “Godspell,” Inglima maintains, “lifts it from the didactic story of the human condition to a joyous celebration of human possibilities.”

She adds that “many of the messages in the play resonate as loudly today as they did in the time of Christ — to love and honor human life, that we are all one and we have a responsibility for our actions.”

Inglima points out that, “Our country is now at war and many of the people I know are disappointed in and disillusioned by the leaders we have elected. We are currently in a contentious presidential election, and it seems more and more timely to revisit the stories and heart of this musical.”

“Godspell” normally is set in a modern atmosphere, with a group of young people, one of whom assumes the role of Jesus.

The actors recreate the biblical lessons in modern terms while tracing the life of Christ, concluding with the crucifixion and resurrection.

“I hope that after seeing this musical, audiences will understand that we all have a responsibility to make this world a better place in which we want to live,” Inglima declares.

“Godspell” will be on the playhouse stage for two weekends — Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2 and 7:30 and Sundays at 1 and 5 p.m. through Nov. 2. Call the theater at (949) 497-2787 for ticket information.

TOM TITUS reviews local theater for the Coastline Pilot.