- Last Updated on Thursday, 09 May 2013 02:57
The Elizabeth Grand Theatre presented John-Michael Tabelak's classic musical, Godspell. The audience was delighted by the highly talented cast, who affectionately mingled with them throughout the show and before the intermission.
Stephen Santa, Director, Beth Depetro, Production Manager/Stage Manager, and Lori Kolodzieg, Producer/Executive Director, gave their own spin to the musical, with a dialogue that was peppered with references to the interests of young people today, such as Judge Judy and Facebook. The show began with teens spray painting an abandoned movie set, when Jesus, played by Shane Conrad, arrived to educate the youth on the parables of Matthew and Luke.
The energetic cast was a bundle of musical talent. With direction from Debbie Boughner, Music Director and and Linda Matthews, Choreographer, they kept the audience captivated with their lively song and dance!
The cast of Godspell included:
Shane Conrad: He made his debut at the Grand Theatre playing the lead role of Jesus Christ.
Chad Elder: A veteran actor at the Grand Theatre. During the day he works in public relations, assisting cardiac arrest survivors to share their stories in an effort to reach heart patients that may be at risk.
Candice Fisher: With her debut in Godspell she wowed the audience with her singing.
Nathan Hough: His past acting experiences earned him a Director's Choice Award nomination. He appeared as a cast member of the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival and in a promo for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Samantha Middlemiss: She has appeared as a National Anthem Soloist at Cornerstone Television, as well as, Heinz Field, PNC Park, Melon Arena and the CONSOL Energy Center.
Joey Moser: He studied Musical Theater at Point Park University and made his debut at the Grand Theatre through Godspell.
Kristin Welch: She has appeared as “Little Red” in “The Woods” and as “Lily St. Regis” in “Annie.”
Jessica Whittington: She performed as a featured singer with the Renaissance City Choir. Her role as “Vicki Nichols” earned her an award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
The next major production coming to the Elizabeth Grand Theatre is “The Little Mermaid.” The show dates are Friday, May 3rd at 7:30, Saturday, May 4th at 2:00 and 5:00 and Sunday, May 5th at 2:00. For ticket information visit www.monriverarts.org or call the box office at 412-384-0504. All seats are $8. Bring your children for a musical by the Petite Players!