Little Known Musical Raises Questions

Jesus, played by Mike Wang, preaches to nine eventual disciples through a combination of parable and story-telling during the first act of GODSPELL. (Photo by Linda Goldsworthy)

In her debut with the TLTC, Lisa Miller sings "Learn Your Lessons Well" as Jesus works at creating a unique community among the former unbelievers. (Photo by Linda Goldsworthy)

   “I have always loved the music of GODSPELL and have enjoyed the style of its message,” explains Watersmeet, Michigan, resident Karen Schmitt, who portrayed a frazzled waitress-turned-disciple. (Photo by Linda Goldsworthy)

By Linda Goldsworthy

he question that I’ve most heard in recent weeks is ‘What is GODSPELL?’  The Three Lakes Theater Company has had a history of doing performances that are household names, from Oklahoma! to Fiddler on the Roof and Camelot, to last year’s performances of The Wizard of Oz. 

GODSPELL, however, doesn’t seem to bring with it the same name recognition.  But my guess is that most people will know the music, even if they don’t know the show.

I was introduced to musicals at Berlin High School, and while we only did one musical a year, our vocal music director Mary Greisen made a point of exposing her students to great show music throughout the year.  As a result of being a concert choir member, I was introduced to a medley of great music from GODSPELL.  Since the May 1987 concert was to be my last, all of Mrs. G’s selections still hold a special place in my memory.  GODSPELL was no exception.  If any thing, it set the stage and solidified my love of musicals.

The TLTC’s upcoming production promises to do the same.  From the moment Three Lakes Assistant Fire Chief Dave Kirby and Northland Pines Middle School teacher Mike Wang open the show with Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord, to Act I’s final number You Are the Light of the World, there is no doubt that GODSPELL is filled with excellent music.

For those who enjoy a variety of musical styles, GODSPELL will also deliver.  Jazz, folk, rock, and ballads are evident in such numbers as Day by Day, O, Bless the Lord, My Soul and Turn Back, O Man.

But it’s not only the music of GODSPELL that will draw audience members, it’s also the story. 

“GODSPELL means ‘Gospel.’  As one who believes the teachings of Jesus are true, the opportunity to share this Good News through song and dance with a broad range of people was especially appealing, challenging, and precious to be part of,” notes Sugar Camp native Laurie , who joins the TLTC for a second production. 

Yet the style of GODSPELL will be unlike anything the TLTC has previously staged. 

Even the script notes and revisions of lyricist Stephen Schwartz bluntly state, “GODSPELL is a deceptively difficult show to direct.”

Other than telling you that Act I deals with Jesus forming a community through the use of parables and lessons and that Act II follows the Passion story, I can’t fully explain the story of GODSPELL. I think that each audience member will walk away from the production with a different meaning. 

I also don’t envy the gigantic task Creative Director Mari Lynn Garbowicz has taken on the last six months.  She has to walk a fine line between the drama of the story which is sub-textual and the humor which can threaten to make the show clownish.

 However the impact of this unique show on its 10-member cast is far-reaching.

Citing the Biblical quote, All good gifts around us are sent from heaven above, TLTC veteran Beth Jacobson sees this show as a special calling. “I am thankful to Him for the talents and opportunity to share His message with our community.”

Those thoughts are echoed by Rhinelander resident Roger Stevens who notes, “What little I have done for the Lord, he has return to me a thousand fold.”