Stewart Clarke and company in a concert version of Godspell at the Lyric Theatre, London. Picture: Darren Bell
Godspell was performed at the Lyric Theatre, London for one night only.
In front of members of the original London cast, on the 43rd anniversary of the show’s opening in the West End, Godspell made a return for just one night only at the Lyric Theatre.
Having never encountered the musical before and then seeing the Broadway revival three years ago, producer and musical director Russell Scott vowed to bring the show back to London, and he does so with real heart and soul in this charity gala in aid of the Make-A-Wish Foundation UK.
It is quite clear why the musical hasn’t had a revival here in the UK – quite simply it doesn’t stand the test of time very well, partly due to how outdated and preachy the book is, no matter how much modernising of the text is done.
Director Kenneth Avery-Clark tries to allow his cast the freedom to play around with the interlinking scenes but these don’t sit well, especially when placed alongside the powerhouse numbers belted out with sheer passion and commitment from the cast. Indeed it is the score, full of catchy melodies and beautifully written lyrics, which makes this concert version fly.
In the lead role of Jesus, Stewart Clarke shows what a versatile performer he is, equally at ease rocking out with the heavier numbers and pouring out emotion during the softer ballads. Clarke is supported by Andy Abraham (Judas/John the Baptist) and Zoe Tyler. Abraham has the delicious, smooth vocals that can warm any heart, while sadly Tyler is heavily under used throughout. Jason Broderick steals the show with a breathtaking rendition of ‘We Beseech Thee’.
Strong support is also lent from Jennifer Potts and Les Miserables’ current Marius, Rob Houchen, who really lets himself go and proves to be a real hit. It’s amazing what can happen when you escape from the barricade!
Russell Scott conducts a strong and richly sounding orchestra which is also complemented by members of the Maida Vale Singers and pupils from the American Musical Theatre Academy London.
While you can argue that elements of this concert fall rather flat, you can’t ignore the rousing renditions of Stephen Schwartz’s material, and for that and the sheer amount of money raised for such a good cause, it is worthy of the ticket price alone.
Kevin Byrnes
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