Review: COTTON PATCH GOSPEL Blossoms at Theatre 3!

By: Sep. 08, 2015
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Growing up on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, cotton patches were nowhere to be found, and "gospel" was hardly a part of my vocabulary. When I learned of COTTON PATCH GOSPEL at Theatre Too (the black box stage at Theatre 3), I must admit I was prepared to judge (and avoid) the show based solely on its title. Still, when I was invited to come review the show, I cautiously accepted and asked a new friend to join me at the theatre. There, like a Biblical miracle, the company of COTTON PATCH GOSPEL made a convert out of me.

Set to folk/country music, the musical describes itself as a "countrified musical comedy...based on the book The Cotton Patch Version of Matthew and John." Set in present day Georgia, the cast is led by Joey Folsom as Jesus, with Willy Welch, Justin Duncan, Sonny Frank, Johnny Lee, Julie Mayer and Abigail Palmgren playing such familiar faces as Matthew, Mary, Joseph, and other celebrities of The New Testament. In addition to the many roles they play, the accomplished cast also serves as the band throughout the show, with the addition of the talented Dennis Langevin on the bass. This show is truly an ensemble piece, and each person on that stage deserves to be there and carries the show in their own right.

COTTON PATCH GOSPEL isn't the first Christian-themed musical, with JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, GODSPELL and JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT performing (somewhere) daily all over the country. With my biblical knowledge mostly relying on Andrew Lloyd Webber and Stephen Schwartz's hit songs, I wasn't sure I'd be engaged in this southern retelling. Despite my hesitance, the modernization of the piece made the characters relatable, and the story impressively poignant.

Director B.J. Cleveland has crafted a seamless and inspired performance, staging the show with only a few planks of wood and a ladder to creatively transform the space. Musical director Mark Mullino's work with the cast is especially impressive, as they manage to juggle several instruments, tight harmonies and, notably, no microphones. The costumes, lighting, scenery and props aptly enhance the intimate show.

At intermission, I wondered who the appropriate audience for this show might be. Christians, musicians, storytellers, and general theatre enthusiasts will all walk away with respect for Theatre Too's strong production. In fact, if you enjoyed the Broadway musical ONCE, COTTON PATCH GOSPEL is the must-see little show of the season!

The show runs through October 4th, performing weekly Thursday through Sunday. Tickets are available at Theattre3Dallas.com or by calling 214-871-3300.



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