Thursday, March 28, 2019
Staff report
YOUNGSTOWN
Hopewell Theatre will present “Godspell,” the Stephen Schwartz-John-Michael Tebelak musical, for two weekends, beginning Friday.
“Godspell” opened off-Broadway in 1971 and has been a theater staple ever since.
The musical is structured as a series of parables, primarily based on the Gospel of Matthew, that are interspersed with music set to lyrics from traditional hymns, and with the passion of Christ appearing briefly near the end of the show.
In the role of Jesus is Jacob Nash, with Dan Betts as John the Baptist/Judas. The ensemble consists of Tracie Balentine, Rick Haldi, Josh Bodnar, Jenna Cintavey, Dakota and Judy Sipusic, Chrissy Craig, Martin Daniels, Athena and Sally Tausch, Niki Latsko, JoAnne Santagata, Bob Gerde, Marisa Keshock and Rob Whitin.
Director is Sam Luptak Jr., with artistic assistance from Marlene Menaldi Strollo. Nick Opritza is choreographer, Ed Phillips (Austintown) is musical director and Brandon McFadden is lighting designer.
Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and April 5 and 6; and 2 p.m. Sunday and April 7. The theater is at 702 Mahoning Ave.
Tickets are $15 ($12 students and senior citizens); for reservations, go to hopewelltheatre.org or call 330-746-5455.
Handicapped-accessible parking is available beside the theater. Parking is also available across the street and in a lot just to the south of the theater. Security is provided for evening performances.