‘Godspell’ Caps Eureka College Drama Season

EUREKA – The Eureka College Theatre Department will cap its season with the Christian-themed musical “Godspell,” which will run at 7:30 PM, April 9, 10, 11 and 13, which is Palm Sunday, and 2:00 PM on Saturday, April 12.

The guest director is Chip Joyce of Peoria, who has acted in and directed numerous productions in the Peoria area. Musical director is Laura Weaver Hughes of Eureka.

Based on the Gospel according to Matthew and drawing from various theatrical traditions such as clowning, pantomime, charades, acrobatics and vaudeville, the musical is a groundbreaking and unique reflection on the life of Jesus, with a message of kindness, tolerance and love. It is rated G.

Conceived and originally directed by John Michael Tebelak, with music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, “Godspell” is one of the biggest off-Broadway and Broadway successes of all time. The Eureka production will feature the 2011 arrangements and script used in the recent Broadway revival.

The score includes a string of well-known songs, including “Day By Day,” “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord,” “Learn Your Lessons Well,” “All For the Best,” “All Good Gifts,” “Turn Back, O Man” and “By My Side.”    

 Cast members are Andrew Schoepke of Varna, Tim Jenkins of Watseka, Sarah Hall of Peoria, Joel Shoemaker of Mahomet,  Jessica King of Metamora, Joanna Guevara of Rockford,  Kirsti McDonnell and Chris Tam, both of Washington, and Megan Simpson and Jake Geiger, both of Morton.

Tickets are $5. For reservations, call the box office at 309-467-6363.