Godspell (an archaic spelling of the word gospel) is a musical based on the gospel according to Matthew.  Much of the dialogue and many of the song lyrics therefore are lifted from scripture and can give the show a religious feel.  It is, however, with its strong music and physical drama a musical that will appeal to all ages and philosophies.

One of the biggest off-Broadway and Broadway successes of all time, Godspell was originally played on the New York stage in 1971.  It was written by John-Michael Tebelak and the music and lyrics were written and directed by Stephen Schwartz who has had recent success writing the scores for the musical Wicked and the Disney film Enchanted.

Godspell has remained such an important part of the modern musical theatre because it is so versatile.  The original production made the company a troupe of clowns who follow Jesus in an abandoned playground; subsequent productions have been set in museums, classrooms, on top of buildings, an apocalyptic world or in an abandoned theatre.  Our production sets the scene in the local skate park where all the characters are teenagers.

The story tells us of a community who learn how to work together.  Separated by opinion and social stereotype they cannot agree on anything until a mysterious figure appears and begins to tell them stories; stories which, as the children gain confidence, they tell and act out to one another until they realise they no longer need this mysterious figure to lead them through.  They have created a community.

Although it is set in the familiar surroundings of the Skate Park through the cast's clever acting and interpretation the audience will be taken through different locations and emotions.

Now sit back and enjoy as our cast take you with them on their inspirational journey.

 

Feedback

  • "I thought that last year's show could not be topped but I confess I am now not convinced!  What an amazing 2 hours of entertainment!  Godspell is such a sophisticated, difficult musical to perform, but I must say that I witnessed an extremely professional, skilled and talented version last night."
  • "I would also like to say how impressed I was at the musical support, the art work, stage direction, dancing, front of house and administration - the whole thing was managed perfectly and to such a high standard - well done to all pupils, staff and volunteers involved.  I am looking forward to going to church to see if the Pringles and buckfast idea has caught on at communion. What will you do to top this next year???"
  • "I just wanted to say how much Jan and I enjoyed Godspell last night. The show was an absolute masterpiece with the kids performance taking us through the story with humour, passion and emotion.  Please extend our thanks to all the pupils and staff  involved and also our best wishes for Wednesday and Thursdays performances."
  • "To all West Lothian Councillors, I thought you would like to know that the above is an exceptional school show and if it can fit into your busy schedule for tomorrow evening you will be very welcome. The standard of singing, dancing, music and stagecraft is very high."
  • "Thank you once again for inviting me to see your show.  In the past two years since working with YMT: UK I have seen a lot of youth music theatre, very little of which I enjoyed as much as last night!"