The show “Godspell” is now being presented by the Our Theatre Company at the Unitarian Church in Sanford. At first glance one might ask why a show would be presented in a church. Given the subject matter of the show one could readily realize that a church setting would be an appropriate venue for this particular show.

“Godspell,” first presented in 1971 in New York City, was produced by Edgar Lanbury, Stuart Duncan and Joseph Beruah, directed by John Tebelak with music by Stephen Schwartz Many of the songs in the show such as “Day by Day” are still popular today. The subject matter of the show shares the story of Jesus’ life based on the gospel of Matthew through a variety of approaches, i.e. comedy, improvisation as well as direct quotes such as “Turn the other cheek” and “Love your enemies.” In this production, one might think that the relatively small area allotted to the cast would be a major impediment to the show. On the contrary, due to the talent of director Marc Ciaraldi this potential problem was turned to the advantage of the cast. He made use of every inch of the alter area and the steps in front of it as well as the aisles in the church. If one member of the cast was singing a solo, for example, the other members either had movement or otherwise supported and contributed to the effectiveness of the solo.

There were several memorable moments where the cast used flashlights as in “Turn Back O Man” where the ensemble moved their arms in alternating fashion that I found to be very impressive and just one example (of many) that showed how one man’s imagination was the key to a moving production. This factor could and did overcome what could have been a limiting and even static show.

This production was anything but static. Yes, the theme was religious, but it also was a show and the theatrical elements as well as the songs only made the sacred aspects more effective is driving home their message of peace and love.

The cast of eleven all contributed to the effectiveness of the show. They included: Gwendolyn Benoit, Jennifer Cyr, Ryleigh Dyer, Allissa Estes, Heather Lawrence, Sarah Lawrence, Dustin Niehoff, Danielle Raitt, Amy Sehunemann, Lucas Wheaton and Marc Ciaraldi.

There were many outstanding performances to single out. Among these was the rendition of “Day by Day” by Danielle Raitt, “All for the Best” with Lucas Wheaton sharing the honors with Marc Ciaraldi. The singing of the cast was particularly good in this song. Ryleigh Dyer was outstanding in her rendition of “Turn Back O Man.” Acting as well as singing honors go to Dustin Niehoff and Lucas Wheaton throughout the show. The choreography was effective in every case but was particularly memorable in “Light of the World.” Marc Ciaraldi had several memorable moments in the show but the one that showed off his acting skills the most (for me) occurred in “Alas for You” where he spoke as well as sang. If there is some aspect of the theater in presenting a theatrical show in which he is lacking in some ability, based on the several shows he has presented, as well as this one, I am not aware of them. The only thing he and his talented cast lack is a theater they can call home!

The City Hall theater in Sanford is far from being up to code and the several movie theaters in Sanford were razed in the name of urban renewal. To the credit to the powers that be in Biddeford, this did not happen there. (But it was close!)

“Godspell” will be presented Friday and Saturday evenings, at 7:30 p.m.on April 12 and 13, 19 and 20, and also on Saturday and Sunday evenings on April 27 and 28. Tickets are general admission, $12 for adults and $10 for seniors and children. Tickets can be purchased at www.myotc.org or at the box office, call 324-2995.

As I initially asked, a show in a church? In this case, at any rate, most suitable.

— Dr. Morton Gold is a composer/conductor, retired educator and an arts reviewer for the Journal Tribune.