Let your light so shine, and splash. A new production of Godspell is currently in performance at Flint Repertory Theatre in Michigan, but with a twist. The entire musical is now set in a pool, with the actors' costumes being bathing suits and swim trunks. See photos of this new take on the Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak musical in the gallery below.
“We couldn’t be more excited to produce Godspell in a pool!” says Flint Rep Producing Artistic Director Michael Lluberes in a statement. “This show is pure joy, an exuberant celebration of community and storytelling. It’s a favorite of so many musical theatre lovers, and we can’t wait to present it in this fresh new way. What could be more fun than experiencing these amazing performers swimming, splashing, and singing this incredible score in a pool of water?”
The cast includes Chanelle Beach, Shayna Blass, Jason Briggs, James Cech, Gia Mae Chessa, Sabrina Dahlgren, Travis Darghali, Bryana Hall, Enrique Miguel, and Kyle Patrick as Jesus.
The musical features scenic design by A.J. Guban, costume design by Brandon R. McWilliams, lighting design by Chelsie McPhilimy, and sound design by Justin Schmitz, and is stage managed by Ernie Fimbres and Melissa A. Nathan.
Godspell is structured as a series of parables that Jesus' disciples are telling to each other. The show premiered in 1971 at the Off-Off Broadway theatre La MaMa. It then went on to an Off-Broadway run, then a 1976 Broadway run. The show ran until 1977. Its most recent Broadway revival was in 2011, though it continues to be popular in regional and community theatres.
The current production continues through October 20.