The Gospel of Matthew is alive and well on stage at Folsom Lake College, as Falcon’s Eye Theatre presents Godspell. In 1971, composer Stephen Schwartz (Wicked) and writer John-Michael Tebelak introduced their show that reimagines the Gospel through a series of parables, songs, and storytelling. This production places the story in a world framed by looming office buildings—a choice that asks what faith, kindness, and community look like in the contemporary world.
This Godspell opens in an urban landscape. The corporate background sets the tone: this is a world of routine, deadlines, and emotional distance. A group of diverse individuals from the annals of history gather to offer wisdom on the fabulous projections designed by Ian Wallace. Characters like L. Ron Hubbard, Thomas Aquinas, Socrates, Marianne Williamson, and, my personal favorite, Sartre, who so eloquently states, “Hell is other people.” Indeed. Jesus joins, and what follows is a gradual unraveling of capitalistic rigidity as the cast begins to rediscover joy, connection, and purpose.
The production moves episodically through parables, and each lesson feels like a colorful explosion against the gray landscape. Songs such as “Day by Day” (sung by Sophia Bueno) and “Prepare Ye” are performed with genuine warmth, battling with the backdrop of concrete and steel. The contrast works particularly well—the more the cast escapes into the music, the more the environment reflects the coldness of the current world landscape.
Isaiah Mendiola’s Jesus is mesmerizing. His warmth and magnetism draw everyone in – from the audience to the principals and ensemble, whose chemistry elevates every number. Each performer understands exactly what their part is, and plays it to perfection. Physical comedy, quiet reflection, and some pretty impressive vocal chops make this show surprisingly unforgettable. It’s much more than I was expecting, in the best way.
Director Jennifer Provenza Wallace’s vision of Godspell for a contemporary audience works because the themes prove themselves timeless. We still need compassion, community, and thoughtfulness. We need to hear the messages now more than ever. As an added bonus, the audience can partake in a “flower communion” during intermission, during which they can go on stage and choose a flower to take home. The only request is that you think loving thoughts of the person who gave it to you. That’s the start of building a “beautiful city.”
Godspell plays at Folsom Lake College through April 26th. Tickets may be found online at falconseyetheatre.com.
Photo credit: Ian Wallace
