MSU Summer Theatre opens with 'Godspell'
Minot State University Summer Theatre opens its 51st season with “Godspell” at the MSU Amphitheater June 8-12. All performances begin at 8:30 p.m., and the box office opens at 7:30 p.m.
Mark McQuade, music associate professor, directs this vibrant musical written by John-Michael Tebelak with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. “Godspell” is a vibrant portrayal of the life and parables of Jesus Christ and his messages of kindness, peace and love.
“I based my vision for this production on the composer’s premise of the formation of a community in a setting of urban blight and poverty,” McQuade said. “One of the most impoverished and blight-ridden places on the planet is Calcutta, India, which I had the incredible opportunity to visit 10 years ago. The city is hugely overcrowded and polluted. Despite the fact that 15 million people live in the Calcutta metropolitan area, people are lost and constantly searching for refuge within a community and deliverance out of the states in which they find themselves. I felt like the story and values of ‘Godspell’ really fit perfectly into this setting.”
“Godspell” began as a student project, which was performed by Carnegie Mellon University students. Because of its popularity, the musical moved to La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club in Greenwich Village before making its way off-Broadway where it enjoyed long-running success. It made its official debut on Broadway in 1971. With a bohemian and eclectic blend of music, dance, games, storytelling and comedy and featuring popular such songs as “Day by Day,” “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord,” “Learn Your Lessons Well” and “By My Side,” “Godspell” continues to touch audiences of all ages.
Ticket prices are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors (over 55), students and military with ID, $8 for children (12 and under), $5 for MSU faculty, staff and students. For more information or reservations, contact
858-3228, or visit the MSU Summer Theatre webpage, http://www.minotstateu.edu/theatre/summer.shtml.
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
| Published: 06/06/16 |
