Uplifting Performances of "Godspell" Bring Community Together

SOAR Regional Arts, a nonprofit performing arts group, is embarking on a series of outdoor performances of the beloved musical "Godspell." The production promises to captivate audiences with its timeless message of love and acceptance, delivered through the talents of a tight-knit ensemble cast.

Discover the Transformative Power of "Godspell" in an Outdoor Setting

Spreading the Gospel of Love and Acceptance

At the heart of "Godspell" lies a powerful message of love and compassion, one that resonates deeply with the cast and crew. "He's just preaching love, over and over again," says Sydney Summers, an ensemble member. "Which I think is really important in any day and age to remember, with just how polarized some things can be to just come back to that foundation of love and acceptance."The musical's themes of trust, community, and character are explored through the lens of the Gospel of Matthew, with each actor portraying a disciple. Director Ryan Nielson believes that the intimate nature of the production, with just ten actors on stage throughout, enhances the story's impact. "A show like Godspell really lends itself to a family environment, because it's ten actors the entire time," he explains. "It's 10 people who never leave the stage."

Bringing the Gospel to Life in an Outdoor Setting

The decision to stage "Godspell" in an outdoor venue, the Lions Pavilion in Town Center Park in St. Michael, adds a unique dimension to the production. For Nathan Beal, who takes on the role of Jesus, this is a new and exciting challenge. "It's a big, kind of daunting task to step into that role and know how much is relying on you," he admits.Beal, who has played Jesus in "Godspell" before, is eager to bring the character to life in this outdoor setting. He hopes that the audience will be captivated by the production, the set, and all the moving pieces that come together to create a truly immersive experience. Most importantly, Beal wants the audience to leave the performance with a renewed sense of optimism and hope, "trusting that things will get better, and you can make them better."

A Tight-Knit Ensemble Dedicated to Sharing the Message

The cast of "Godspell" is a testament to the power of community and the enduring appeal of the musical. "The same people keep coming back, and I think that's a testament to how great it is," Summers says. This tight-knit troupe has been together since the group's first production, and their dedication to the material shines through in their performances.As the performances of "Godspell" begin on September 13 and run through September 22, the SOAR Regional Arts team is excited to share this timeless story with the community. Admission is free, though donations are suggested, making the production accessible to all. With the cast's passion for the material and the unique outdoor setting, the performances promise to be a truly uplifting and transformative experience for all who attend.