The Media Theatre revitalizes the classic musical
“Godspell” now through August 27. The show, with music by Stephen Schwartz and
a book by John Michael Tebelak, features a cast of children, teens, and adults
as the followers of Jesus while they humorously act out his parables from the
Book of Matthew.
Charlie Carroccio, 7, of Newtown Square, is one
of the Disciples in the production. He attends the second grade at Ss. Colman
John Neumann Elementary School. Charlie has been seen previously at The Media
Theatre in several children’s shows: “The Real Story Of Little Red Riding Hood”,
“Winnie The Pooh’s Christmas Tail”, Disney’s “Cinderella Kids”, and “Madagascar
Jr.”. Plus he was in “Annie” at Archbishop Carroll, and coming up this holiday season he is playing the role of Chip in The Media Theatre's professional Broadway Series production of Disney's "Beauty and The Beast" (Nov. 15-Jan. 14).
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| CHARLIE CARROCCIO |
Of “Godspell” at The Media Theatre, Charlie says,
“It’s about people with all different backgrounds coming together. Because
everyone is different, we see things differently and that is what makes the
show special. We have an amazing group of young actors making up this cast!”
His favorite song in the show is the big hit “Day
By Day”, which is led by young actress and singer Sarah Lambert, 16, of
Cherokee High School in Marlton, NJ. She’s been in high school productions of “High
School Musical”, “A Funny Thing Happened on The Way to The Forum”, and “Anything
Goes”. “Godspell” is her first show at The Media Theatre.
Sarah said, “To me, “Godspell” is about
community. A variety of people and a range of ages coming together, with
different views about God, and putting aside their differences.”
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| SARAH LAMBERT |
She believes “Godspell” reaches many people. “It’s
not just about God,” she explained. “Most of our cast isn’t even Christian or
Catholic as we also have those who are Jewish on stage, and a few agnostics.
The show is really about the parables and the life lessons they teach such as
helping others, loving your enemies, and forgiveness. These are good lessons
for anyone! Even though the show is centered around Jesus and God, that does
not mean that is the only thing you’ll get out of it.”
Sarah’s favorite song in the show is not “Day By
Day”, which she leads, but “The Finale”. Of that, she says, “Austy Hicks, who
plays Jesus, is incredible. During the Crucifixion when he sings it makes my
heart cry out to him. I’ve invested in tissues!”
“This production of the classic musical is the
most unique and intriguing version I’ve ever seen,” she said. “Director Roger
Ricker really had a vision for the show that is eye catching, from the props to
the screen graphics, and a sports theme including a boxing match with Jesus and
Judas. It’s really special.”
“Godspell” at The Media Theatre is directed by Roger Ricker,
with music direction by Ben Kapilow. Austy Hicks plays the role of Jesus. For
tickets, call 610-891-0100 or visit mediatheatre.org
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