BRUNSWICK

Visitors to the Farmer’s Market in Brunswick this week were greeted by a blast of songs, courtesy the interns of the Maine State Music Theatre.

The interns were performing hits from their production of “Godspell,” the musical mostly inspired by the Gospel according to St. Matthew, and which is being performed Monday.

The show has the distinction of being entirely performed and produced by the theater’s interns, including the acting, costuming, and design and tech work.

Rehearsals began in May, according to Kevin Nietzel. Work on “Godspell” stopped in order to make way for the production of “Chamberlain,” which concluded July 12 and “7 Brides for 7 Brothers,” which runs July 16- Aug. 2.

Because “Godspell” is running between dates for “7 Brides,” cast and crew have been rehearsing whenever they’ve had the chance.

“We rehearsed (‘Godspell’), did ‘Chamberlain,’ and then learned ‘7 Brides,’ and now we’re also rehears- ing ‘Footloose,’” said Kevin Nietzel of Chicago, who plays Jesus and attends Florida State University. “They’re really different shows, so you don’t really mistake them for each other. But you have to really focus. You have to make sure you’re engaged in the story.”

According to Cameron Wright of Ellsworth, who plays Judas and attends the University of Southern Maine, the breaks from rehearsal can help keep in the production fresh and organic.

“Going away from it for a while helps keep it fresh,” said Wright. “It’s a show that’s different every time, because we have a lot of ad lib, interactions with the audience.”

Costuming is modern urban-casual, with Nietzel clad in a Superman T-shirt and Wright in a studded jacket.

“This is a story that everyone knows. Trying to be faithful to that story, but at the same time, ‘Godspell’ is so very different than what’s in the Bible,” said Wright.

Nietzel said Jesus knows his fate in “Godspell,” making the role challenging.

Wright has the challenge of making Judas — one of the most vilified figures — into a character that is not cartoonishly evil.

“He’s probably one of the most unlikeable figures ever,” said Wright.

Godspell first premiered off-Broadway in 1971 and has been revived several times. It’s perhaps best known for the song “Day by Day,” which made Billboard’s Top Twenty in 1972.

Music in MSMT’s version is based on a more recent revival and so has a more contemporary feeling, said Nietzel.

“The music is really catchy, fun,” said Nietzel.

“The show has an unbelievable energy at all moments,” said Wright.

“Godspell” will be performed July 28 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Call 725-8769 or go to MSMT.org for more information.

jswinconeck@timesrecord.com