

"Working with some of the younger kids, you're worried how they'll do. "It's a lot of work, but lots of fun, at the same time," he said. "But things are going great because we started tryouts last summer and the cast members now know each other well."Ĭhurch organist Kent Washburn is the musical's pianist, and his favorite song is "Turn Back, O, Man," because "it's a big, piano festival." He's also excited that the show contains "a lot of undeniable energy." "The whole cast is on stage, the whole time, and has to stay in character," said Halterman. He said the audience will appreciate the variety of theater skills employed during the show, including charades, puppets and comedy.

His favorite song in the show is "On the Willows," performed during the Last Supper scene: "It's very reflective and contemplative - thinking about what Jesus went through and the crucifixion about to happen." Local musicians will provide the music on guitar, bass, synthesizer, piano, organ and drums. It's about Jesus developing his community of friends and disciples, and the joys they experienced within that community." "We both love musicals, and 'Godspell' is a good one because it's about community and joy. "One of the church goals is outreach in the community," he explained. Contact Don Halterman at 70 or Gate Post Estates' Don Halterman, Centreville Presbyterian's director of praise and worship, asked Dillard if she'd like to do a joint production combining the talents of the church members and Westfield's students. Show times are Friday-Saturday, March 23-24, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, March 25, at 2 p.m., at the church, 15450 Lee Highway in Centreville. "Besides lots of talented adults, we have wonderful students from Westfield and Centreville high schools, Stone and Rocky Run middle schools and some elementary schools." "IT'S A COOL blend of adults and children I love how it's intergenerational," said Director Zoe Dillard, a member of the church and an accomplished theater director at Westfield. Cooper Grainger gives a confident and skilled performance throughout, and is a deserving audience favourite.Community theater at its finest is showcased in the upcoming musical, "Godspell." Performed through a partnership between Westfield High and Centreville Presbyterian Church, the show contains local theater students, church members, area residents and a former Broadway professional.

Clarence has a great energy on stage, which combined with his vocal and acting skills ensures he commands attention. While his performance as John is strong, it is as Judas he truly shines, giving depth to the role, making sure the audience sees Judas’ struggle as he grapples with his decision.Īnother standout performer is Clarence Chan, the soloist for Learn Your Lessons Well. He seemingly effortlessly switches from ballad to rap, John to Judas, and never misses a beat. He gives a nuanced performance, managing to balance the comedy of parts of the show with the deeper, more spiritual message it contains. Opening the show with the song Prepare Ye (The Way of the Lord), Gabriel immediately captures attention, setting a high standard for the rest of the show. His talent is unquestionable with a strong and tuneful voice matched by his acting skills. Gabriel Gerente is perfectly cast in the dual role of John the Baptist and Judas.
