“Godspell”

[rating=5]When I attend a production at Theo Ubique, I always know that I am in for an experience to remember. For all the years, from Rogers Park to their new home in Evanston, they have always paved the way for what the “storefront” experience can be. A small production or a huge musical- makes no difference, they do wonders on their small stage ( which in many productions is not even a stage).

Their current production “Godspell” conceived by John-Michael Tebelak with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz ,directed to perfection by Christopher Pazdernik. is an amazing version of this musical piece. If you have never been to Theo Ubique’s space, The Howard Street Theatre, located at 721 West Howard Street in Evanston, you need to know that this is what one would call “Cabaret Theater”, where drinks and even dinner can be part of your experience. The performers are also the wait staff and are so close you can reach out and touch them. There are even moments where you think you might be a part of the show. Don’t worry! You will not be brought up  into the action.

“Godspell” is an interesting work in that it explores friendship, loyalty and love as based on the Gospel of Saint Matthew. You will note that a lot of the content in this work is biblical and the story even ends with the Passover Seder including the prayers over the Matzot (bread) and wine. Instead of the crucifixtion, they use ropes as a symbol and it is quite effective.

The music is a true mix of rock opera, pop, jazz and gospel as the cast of  10 bring the story to life. The story is about community, but was written in a manner so that every director could insert timely items to bring the show to today’s audiences. The characters in the story are people who are “othered” by society. Each needs to find themself and be at peace with who they are. In today’s world this is even more important than it was back when the play was written. They are all seeking to find themselves and to form a community and  where the original version works with the parables of the bible, this version is a little more modern and truly fits today’s world and what we see “Day By Day” ( one of the show’s most popular songs).

The main character of the show who represents Jesus is Austin ( Austin Nelson Jr.) a newcomer to this venue. Many of the performers in this production are making their debuts. I am not sure how this happens but Theo seems to attract some of hte most talented people from all over who move to Chicago and find Theo. Thank the lord for this ( and over the years Fred Anzevino who is the founder of this theater). The other cast members are Anna Marie Abbate, Bryce Ancil, Hannah Efsits, Laz Esrada, Matthew hunter, Alix Rhode, Izzie Jones, Quinn Simmons and tonight, filling in for Ashely Saul, the incredible Chamaya Moody ( who is  a pit singer when not handling a role) The blend of voices and energy these people brought to the stage made for a delightful theatrical experience.

The three ( normally 4) pit singers were Jon Parker Jackson, Tommy Wells and Anna Blanchard. The musical director as always is  Jeremy Ramey and the choreography by Jenna Schoppe was more than I anticipated for a stage this intimate. She truly had a great vision in working with ten people who look as different as an ensemble could look but as they moved about the stage, they seemed to be as one- her conception!

The tech side of this production is for the most part the lighting (Maggie Fullilove-Nugent) and sound (Stefanie M. Senior) and I adored the costumes by Rueben Echoles ( who seems to be everywhere of late).

The running time for “Godspell” is about 2 hours and 25 minutes ( including one intermission) and this is a show that is very musical from start to finish. Some of the numbers stand out above others and as I said the talent in this show should be an ensemble winner of the Jeff for Ensemble. Songs like “Learn Your Lesson Well” ( Quinn truly hits it), “Alas For You” ( where Austin reaches out to the Rabbis), “We Beseech Thee” ( Bryce  is spot on) and “By My Side” ( Hannah and Quinn with the Company- I felt goosebumps). There are many more and each song and little story that we are shown will grab you . This is the perfect cast for this production.

“Godspell” will continue at TheoUbique through July 31st with performances as follows:

Thursdays  7:30 p.m.

Fridays  7:30 p.m.

Saturdays  7:30 p.m.

Sundays  7 p.m.

Tickets start at $42 ( $5 discount for seniors)

Unsold seats will be available for $20 one hour before curtain- cash only.

Dinner is available for$29 additional from LaConcita in Evanston.

to order tickets call 773-939-4101 or visit www.theo-u.com

Parking is mostly metered and because you are on Howard Street it pays to see which meter – Chicago and Evanston have different rates and hours.

Covid policies. You must show vac card and photo ID and must wear a mask when not eating or drinking.

To see what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to Review Round-Up and click at “Godspell”.