Prepare ye for Godspell.
The rock musical based on the Gospel According to St. Matthew is coming to Barrhead on Feb. 28 and March 1.
Since September, Drama for Children has been rehearsing, devoting many weekend hours to a production that challenges all aspects of theatre.
Day by day, away from public scrutiny, they have been ironing out kinks.
Taking the role of Jesus is Sarah Rottier, who has completed her first year at the Rosebud School of the Arts. She is also co-director.
Director Dale Clark said she had chosen Godspell because it was a terrific play for developing acting, dancing and singing skills.
“It is also one of the greatest musicals, running off Broadway since the early 1970s until 2011,” she said.
“And the kids get to be who they are in this play – getting to know Jesus first hand, experiencing what it would be like if he were born today rather than 2,000 years ago.
“Without the input from our co-director, Sarah Rottier, this play would not have been possible. Her dedication to Jesus is evident in her interpretation of his Word throughout the play.
“This is possible because she already is His follower. What an amazing experience this has been for all of us.”
Clark said many of the cast had been studying in Drama for Children for years. However, there were also three new members.
“It is especially rewarding to work with four children, three of whom are enjoying their second year in Drama For Children,” she said.
“Of course, it has been very rewarding to be working with Sarah Rottier, who has been with me as an early childhood music student at three years of age, through choirs to musical theatre, and has been accepted into Rosebud School of the Arts, completing her first year.”
Clark said the cast had received excellent acting advice from Wilfred Butler.
She also paid tribute to Amy Caldwell for creating choreography to do justice to a demanding score, and tell the story while allowing good voice production.
Another key person, said Clark, was Footworks Dance Academy’s Irene Widdup, who challenged and supported the cast in developing dance skills.
“Diane Stoppler, Elaine Breadon Peiche, and Jane Rottier designed and sewed the costumes, and Heidi Demuynck orchestrated the task of appropriate props,” said Clark.
“James Grumbach worked in recording music, sound effects, and will be at the sound board for the performances – and anyone who has ever used him in sound production knows there are few professionals of his calibre. He is the man who allows the kids to stage their work.
“This play is also highly dependent upon good lighting and Wilfred Butler and Timothy Bohn are the light technicians for this production.
“Mainstreet PC and Print have used their professional expertise in promotion, as well as our sponsors who make the printing cost possible.”
Clark appealed for the public to come out and watch extremely talented young people and children perform.
Tickets cost $15 and are available at Rexall Drugs. The Feb. 28 and March 1 performances take place at Barrhead Composite High School drama theatre, starting at 7:30 p.m.
