Godspell

This was a well staged and well-choreographed production of this classic but, sadly, not often performed musical. The set and various props were well used by the cast throughout and much of the movement of the different props was choreographed and was synchronised with the music which was a nice touch.

There were some strong portrayals throughout both in spoken word and in song. This is a mammoth part for the character of Jesus particularly with extremely lengthy sections of dialogue and Richard McNally-Reilly rose to the occasion very well. He used all areas of the stage and set and had a good stage presence. Richard Beckett (Judas/John the Baptist) was in fine voice leading the company in ‘Prepare Ye’ and also in the duet ‘All for the Best’ with Richard McNally-Reilly. This is always an impressive number when it is performed well. It was good to see mother and daughter, Claire and Rebecca Oatley, working together on stage. Joanne (Claire) fronting the company in ‘O Bless the Lord’ and Robin (Rebecca) doing the same in the stirring number ‘Day by Day’. Being a small cast, it gave several members the opportunity to front the company and show off their talents. Lamar (Michael Mannion) led the uplifting, ‘All Good Gifts’ and Sonia (Chloe Robinson) did the same in opening Act 2 with ‘Turn Back O Man’. Gilmer (Lucy Pountain) led the company in ‘Learn Your Lessons Well’, also duetting with Peggy (Chelsea Reilly) in ‘By My Side’. There was also a very pleasant rendering of ‘On the Willows’ by the ensemble of Helen Bodley, Julie Lamb and Charlotte Mannion. Newcomer Mark Shane Newman showed that he is an asset to the company playing the part of Herb.

The excellent choreography was slickly performed and there was a good balance between the excellent band and the singers on stage supported by a good lighting and sound plot. The singing was strong and confident throughout with some very pleasing harmonies in duets, ensembles and full company. The moving of the band down the stage for the playoff was an effective ending to the show. A lot of hard work in preparation and in performance paid off. Well done!

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