February 18, 2005

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Publication Date: Friday, February 18, 2005

God casts a spell

"Godspell" is more than a musical. It is a product of an era of theatrical experimentation, according to the Pleasanton Playhouse, which opens the production tonight, Feb. 18, in its black box Studio Theatre.

The show is not built on a traditional plot, rather it uses improvisation, pantomime, charades and vaudeville to tell the story of Christ. The musical score ranges from vaudeville to gospel to folk to hoe-down to rock opera. However, it also has a serious edge to it, with messages about compassion, forgiveness, community, hypocrisy and giving one's life for one's beliefs.

The cast of 10 includes David Kelleher as Jesus, Matt Davis as Judas, and Morgan Breedveld, Liz Caffrey, Emily Garcia, Nathan Hawkins, Susan Hovey, Chris LaCour, Laura Marion and Michael Morales.

The music and new lyrics are by Stephen Schwartz. The Pleasanton Playhouse production is produced by JoAnn Loitz; directed by Carol Hovey; choreographed by Nicole McGann; music director is Greg Zema.

"Godspell," based on the Gospel according to St. Matthew, was one of the biggest off-Broadway and Broadway successes of all time. It features a string of recognizable songs, including the international hit "Day by Day." -Dolores Fox Ciardelli
Serious message, delivered with fun

What: "Godspell" Who: Pleasanton Playhouse Where: Pleasanton Playhouse Studio Theatre, 1048 Serpentine Lane, Suite 309 When: 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; Feb. 18-March 13. Also 2 p.m., Saturdays, Feb. 26, March 5, March 12 Cost: $20 adults; $18 adults over 60 and juniors under 18; discounts for groups of 20 or more Tickets: Call 462-2121 or order on-line at www.pleasantonplayhouse.com

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