But that said, this production is unquestionably affecting, in the true spirit of the play — even for a viewer with little personal frame of reference for the specific gospel at hand. That is to say that it hits the universal notes. Its success lies in how well it conveys a genuine warmth between the members of its quirky little community. When in "On the Willows," shortly before his death, Jesus embraces each disciple in goodbye, the tenderness in gazes and gestures is palpable, and all the loft of the spirit is stripped to the simplest acts of all.
Megan Grumbling can be reached at mgrumbling@hotmail.com.
Godspell |conceived by John-Michael Tebelak | music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz | Directed by Chris Saunders | Musical Direction by Joshua Smith | Produced by the Arundel Barn Playhouse | through July 11 | 207.985.5552
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