The East Grand Rapids High School Theater Program is setting the stage for its spring musical, Godspell, directed by Pamela Steers and Mark Webb. 

Godspell is a story of community and kindness told through a series of parables, or stories that tell moral or spiritual lessons. There are only two named characters: Judas, played by Joey Collins ‘25, and Jesus, played by Evan Heindel ‘24. 

“Godspell is a story about Jesus and Judas, and the parables they teach us,” Heindel said. “The musical also has a theme of community and bringing joy to others.”

The musical also features tunes that viewers might know or that seem familiar to them.

“The music is absolutely stunning,” Collins said. “The songs are by the same people who did The Popular Show, Wicked, and Pippin. [There are also] some pretty well-known songs in it. It’s a very dance-heavy show and ensemble show.”

The preparation for the show has been rigorous, as the cast is rehearsing nearly every day for multiple hours.

“We auditioned in February and started rehearsing in March, so in essence, we’ve been preparing for about two months,” Collins said. “We rehearse every day from about 3 p.m.-6 p.m. after school.”

The musical means a lot to the cast, especially considering it’s the last show of the year and the final high school performance for seniors. 

“Godspell is really important to me because it’s a show about building a group, and the theater department represents that group of people and how we all interact with each other and how although we’re all very different we come together for one thing. That’s what the show is about,” Heindel said. 

The musical opens on April 25 in the performing arts center until April 27. Be sure to stop by to support the drama department and students of East Grand Rapids!

“It’s a really fun show and a good time. If you come you will enjoy it,” Heindel said.