Note from the Director:
Hello all,
I first want to start off by saying thank you for coming to see Shepherd University Scene Stealers’ production of GODSPELL!
When the opportunity arose for me to direct Godspell, I was honestly hesitant at first. I am a performer first and foremost, and the thought of being on the other side of a production was terrifying. One day, however, while listening to the soundtrack, the entire show seemed to materialize in front of me. I could picture the set, the actors, and each production number! I knew exactly what I wanted to do and the message I wanted to convey.
I had to stress the formation of a community, the idea that people can come together and use their individualities and talents to create a better world around them. There is so much hate and conflict in the world today, people often get caught up in the chaos and forget that they ARE able to contribute in some way, big or small.
With Godspell, I wanted to emphasize the idea of stepping out of reality for just one day and getting out of the hectic, rushed lives that we all live. Ten strangers coming together and realizing that they, themselves, can really influence the world - an idea that often gets lost in today’s society. Even if we don’t get to see how our work will pay off in our lifetimes, we can start “slowly and truly mending - brick by brick, heart by heart”.
It has truly been an honor working with such an amazing, talented group of individuals. Godspell is not a show one can direct alone - every single person involved in the production contributed heavily, and it shows. From the cast to the production crew, I can honestly say we have formed a strong community within this process, and it has truly been an experience I will never forget.
I hope you, the audience, will leave tonight realizing your own “talent”, and use it to help change the world for the better. Together, we CAN build a beautiful city.
Thank you, and enjoy the show!
Matt Rothenberg
Director
