Wait — is that the one with the Technicolor dreamcoat? Or is it Jesus Christ Superstar? Heavens no, you musical heathen: It’s Godspell, the other smash-hit musical based on the Bible, and with lyrics derived from the Gospel According to St. Matthew, it’s probably the most literal interpretation of the Good Book. The 1973 movie version’s tagline was “The Gospel According to Today,” but these days, it’s usually more like the gospel according to 1973, thanks to the hippie smocks, longish hair and psychedelic sets most productions still offer.
But Masquerade Theatre’s rendition, opening today at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, forgoes the hippie stuff for a more modern take. “It’s completely different,” says cast member Stephanie Bradow, who says the 16 performers are clad in colorful, “very modern” dress and that songs such as “All for the Best,” “Day by Day” and “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord” have been updated for a more pop-influenced feel. The set is more classical, featuring “Romanesque” columns and ruins, but the choreography, with Fosse-inspired modern moves, makes the show less “Jesus is a hippie” and more “Jesus is my homeboy.” But don’t worry: The peace, love and happiness remain intact.
April 12-15, 8 p.m.
This article appears in Apr 6-12, 2006.