Godspell

Godspell (1971), a musical by John‐Michael Tebelak (book), Stephen Schwartz (music, lyrics). [Cherry Lane Theatre, 2,124 perf.] John the Baptist interrupts a meeting of the great men of history, from Socrates to Buckminster Fuller, to announce the coming of Jesus ( Stephen Nathan), who arrives sporting a red nose, a heart painted on his forehead, and a Superman shirt. His history, following the Gospel according to St. Matthew, is then told by means of circus and commedia dell' arte tricks, a parody of TV quiz shows, cartoon voices, and similar theatrics. Notable songs: Day by Day, We Beseech Thee; Light of the World; All for the Best. Although no one found the treatment of the gospel sacrilegious, many critics objected to a persistent tone of cuteness. For the most part, playgoers apparently disagreed, for not only did the musical enjoy a long run Off Broadway but it was revived on Broadway at the Broadhurst Theatre in 1976 and ran an additional 527 performances, and the musical continues to be a favorite in theatres (and churches) across the country. It also marked the first professional production for composer‐lyricist Schwartz.