By: Liz Slocum ~Staff Writer~

Stephen Schwartz’s “Godspell” will be opening at 7:30 p.m., Oct. 17. at the Gallagher Center
Theatre.

Based on the story of Jesus Christ, this upbeat musical centers on a group of ordinary people making a journey and learning life lessons.

The story is structured as a series of parables based on the Gospel of Matthew and the Gospel of Luke.

The songs it features have been well-received over the past four decades of the play running, with many cast albums being released over the years and the song “Day by Day” hitting number 13 on the Billboard pop singles chart in 1972.

The students involved in Xavier’s production are said to be quite talented, and Dee Anne Bryll, who is directing Xavier’s production of “Godspell,” said this musical has turned out to be interesting.

“Each production of this show is a little different,” Bryll said. “Every director, production team and cast brings something new to this show. There is great music, there is comedy and there are serious moments and moments of reflection.”

The cast and crew involved in this production have been working hard for nearly two months to bring this story to life, starting with the end-of- August auditions and the first rehearsal following Labor Day. The experience, according to the director, has been rewarding all through the many weeks of hard work.

“I enjoyed all of the scenes,” Bryll said. “I really enjoyed choreographing and staging all of the musical numbers. They all have very different styles and it was so fun to come up with all of the different dance styles, use of props, etc.” Performances for “Godspell” will take place Oct. 17-19 as well as Oct. 24 and 25.

Tickets can be purchased at the Gallagher Student Center box office or at the door. Prices are $12 for students and $17 for regular tickets.