ECHO Players will present Godspell Jr. in Qualicum Beach from Aug. 12 to Aug. 14, as part of its performing arts series.
After a two-year hiatus, Teen Musical Theatre will return to the Village Theatre (110 Second Ave W) stage with a talented young cast.
Longtime teaching partners and co-directors Miranda Murphy, choreographer, and Hilary Whelton, vocal coach, will renew their teen theatre program with a musical about the importance of community, inclusion, sharing and mutual respect, according to a news release.
“There is wisdom, wit and music that will have you singing along and dancing in the aisles,” the release stated.
This year’s production is the youth version of Stephen Schwartz’s play that carries with it a message of kindness, tolerance and love. The all-ages show utilizes a variety of games, storytelling techniques and comedy, as well as songs, ranging from pop to vaudeville.
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Godspell is based on a book by John-Michael Tebelak. It opened off-Broadway in 1971 and has since been produced by multiple touring companies and in many revivals.
The musical is structured as a series of parables, primarily based on the Gospel of Matthew, interspersed with music set primarily to lyrics from traditional hymns.
The Teen Musical Theatre program is a three week immersive experience for youth where they learn all the songs, scenes and dances required to mount a production for an audience. At the same time, they also assist with building sets, costumes, props and the upkeep of the theatre during the rehearsal period.
Tickets are $12 and can be purchased at www.echoplayers.ca, by calling 250-752-3522, or at the box office.
Godspell Jr. is sponsored by Ricky’s All Day Grill in Parksville.
ECHO Players is grateful to its official media sponsor, the Parksville Qualicum Beach News, and to official radio sponsor The Lounge 99.9 and 88.5 The Beach.
ECHO Players is a not-for-profit community theatre group which has been presenting live community theatre on the Village Theatre stage for almost 50 years.
— NEWS Staff, submitted