Mirror Magazine

Mirror Magazine

Morals, ethics and drama…
By Ayesha Inoon
The stage is a vibrant flurry of activity as we walk in on the Reach Theatrix drama group’s rehearsal of the musical drama Godspell directed by Juanita Beling. A lot of laughter and friendly criticisms go on as the young cast run through their moves and lines, and the comfortable rapport between the cast and the vivacious young directress is palpable. As Juanita and the rest of the team talk to us in between the songs, dances and strong ethics being expressed on stage, it is apparent that this production is going to be something out of the ordinary.

Godspell, one of the biggest Broadway and off-Broadway successes of all time, was originally conceived and directed by John-Michael Tebelak. The show opened in Broadway on May 17, 1971, and was an immediate, critically acclaimed success. It features the dazzling Grammy award–winning musical score of Stephen Schwartz and also a string of popular hits from the 70s, such as “Day by Day”, “Learn Your Lessons Well”, “All For The Best” and “Turn Back Old Man”. A unique reflection on the life of Jesus, Godspell is based on the Gospel According to St. Matthew and utilises clowning, pantomime, charades, acrobatics, and vaudeville to tell the story of Christ. It has been performed by over 25 companies worldwide, with eight resident companies and three touring companies in the United States and Canada.

It is a colourful pageant that interprets the life of Jesus in a zestful musical format, yet it is a performance that can be appreciated by anyone of any creed or background. It teaches social, moral and ethical values in an original and enjoyable way. The upbeat tempo dance moves have been choreographed by professionals in the Colombo dancing scene and also have been contributed to by the energetic members of the cast.

According to Juanita, the appeal of Godspell was its versatile script, which could be adapted and interpreted in many ways to express its ideas through novel means. This makes it ideal for a group of young performers to bring out their individual talents through the portrayal of the characters in the play.
Reach Theatrix is an upcoming drama group headed by Juanita Beling who is no stranger to the local drama scene, which aims at producing drama that is socially relevant and enlightening, and that can be enjoyed by the entire family, and Godspell is no exception to this. The group’s debut production, War Letters, staged at the Punchi Theatre in March this year, was a powerful play with a strong message for the general public.

The prominent aspect of the production of Godspell is its cast-varying in ages from 14-25, these spirited youngsters, veterans and amateurs among them, are obviously thrilled to be a part of it. Mokshini, 25, a teacher of speech and drama, says that the best thing about having novices as well as experts in the cast is that each is able to contribute something to the other, with the amateurs in particular giving the others different viewpoints on everything. She says that everyones’ ideas are taken into consideration, so that the whole production becomes a merging of different perspectives. “It’s been a lot of fun,” she laughs, echoing what seems to be the feelings of the entire group.

Nimendra, 22, a student, is a first timer, who is very excited about his role portraying Jesus in the production. He says though it can be a tough task at times, the rest of the cast has been extremely co-operative. About working with Juanita, he says that she is open to creativity, identifies the unique characteristics of the cast, and brings out the best in them. For those who will be coming to watch, he says, “It’s more than just a drama, so watch out!”
Dulika Jayamanne, 22, an undergraduate who has been a part of productions such as Bengal Bungalow, Rockafella and Charlie’s Aunt as well as War Letters, says it means a lot to him to be a part of Godspell, since he feels able to relate to the play and its message. He adds that the opportunity to work with Juanita has been excellent, as she really helps you to explore your real abilities, encourages you to come up with your own ideas, and cross your limitations.

An evening of fun and entertainment for the entire family, moments of spiritual enlightenment and a celebration of life and love are what Godspell promises to be. This fully licensed production of the hit musical will take off in Colombo on September 1 to 3 at the Lionel Wendt Theatre.

Top