Theater preview: Fresno State casts an updated ‘Godspell’ on Fresno audiences
Fresno State’s University Theatre tonight opens “Godspell,” a famous storyline renewed and reshaped by theater professor J. Daniel Herring.
Pictured above: Joey Giudici performing as Jesus in “Godspell.” Photo: Fresno State University Theatre
“Godspell,” which opened on Broadway in the 1970s, is a well-known musical centered around Jesus Christ teaching his parables presented in the book of Matthew to the people. The themes revolve around love, forgiveness and hope. However, to Herring, the presentation was just a little bit outdated and simply needed a revamp.
“When I decided to direct ‘Godspell,’ I wanted to maintain the original conceptual ideas, but also transport the musical forward to our time using ideas, images, dance moves and props appropriate for 2025,” Herring said in a news release.
The original debut of “Godspell” coincided with the Civil Rights Movement, feminist movement and sexual revolution.
It’s not every day that you get to see Jesus’ teachings displayed through various pieces of music and dance, storytelling and even hints of comedy.
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According to Fresno State Today, “This fresh take on the beloved musical blends pop culture nods, vibrant choreography and a wide range of musical styles to bring new life to timeless messages.”
As the audience enjoys the showing of Godspell, this was intended by the cast to spark a time of reflection. What do lessons of kindness, humility, love and forgiveness mean to our modern world?
Are we really living our lives the way Jesus intended us to through His teachings?
“I started with the idea that Jesus was returning to earth and discovering that his teachings had not been followed and that the world was in a bit of a shambles and therefore, he once again needed to share his teachings in order to create a “Beautiful City,’” Herring said.
The show runs through Nov. 22 at the John W. Wright Theatre on Fresno State’s campus.
“In a time of confusion, conflict and unpredictability, ‘Godspell’s’ messages of hope and creating a better community for all have never been more important,” Herring said.
Intern Rachel Yepremian-Owens wrote this article for The Munro Review.
