Calling all StageSiders, Welcome back to another review, and this time I will be reviewing the Godspell: 50th Anniversary Concert. Let me say, what a pleasure it is to see this musical being performed. Even if it isn’t in its usual format, it is nice to see it return. If you are a long time returning StageSider, you will know that Godspell was the first musical I ever bought my own ticket to. Nine years later I am able to see this, the Godspell: 50th Anniversary Concert. This concert is a collaboration between theatre legends and rising stars during the global pandemic. The focus of the concert aligns itself with the focus of the musical. Magnifying the need to work together to build a stronger community.
A Concert During Covid.
Kicking off with two very important messages from Stephen Schwartz and Ruthie Henshall about the message of Godspell and the current global pandemic, the tone was set. Not only was this to be a celebration of the musical’s 50th anniversary, but the concert will also stand as a moment of reflection. It brings together the global pandemic, the collaboration of everyone around the world and the meaning of the musical. Although the Concert doesn’t focus on Covid-19, there are references to how our lives have changed. Whilst it isn’t overbearing, I think it needs to be acknowledged. The individuals in this concert will have been out of work for over a year. So to be able to perform again, must be an amazing feeling.
The performance may not follow the usual format, but the music, vocals and imagery are all stunning. From images of “the world is temporarily closed” to vistas of the natural environment that many of us have taken for granted.
The home made feel to the concert only adds to the stunning visuals. Yes there are some transitions that don’t run smoothly and there’s some classic Imovie effects, but that doesn’t take away from the meaning of the show.
The Stand Out Moments.
Some stand out moments, for me would be the opening number ‘Prepare Ye’ for the visuals and the vocals. Though the lip syncing needs to be a little tighter. And of course I am not saying that the vocals did not belong to the artists that performed in the concert. But the visuals were not synced with the audio and it was very noticeable at times. If this was tightened up, I could have been fooled. I also never thought I would see Ruthie Henshall in a bath… and I am still wondering why that even happened. The folk style of ‘By my side” was so refreshing to hear. It was a lovely twist to a song I have had on my Spotify Playlist for years. Overall the music has gone down a treat, so much so I watched it once and then watched it again.
The Review
Now, do I think I would pay to see a screening of this in a theatre at theatre prices? Probably not. If the songs were performed live in concert, sure I may treat myself. Nothing will compare to the original format of the full musical. For some lockdown entertainment, this has fulfilled its purpose and been a fantastic addition to my ‘viewed in Lockdown’ list. I would recommend getting yourself some access to it, I used BroadwayHD. A fantastic experience and one that I will have to return to, once again.
I would give this performance four out of five stars.
Fantastic, catchy and entertaining during a rather down time. The only downside would be the out of sync lip syncing and the Imovie effects. Although they didn’t make the performance bad, they were things I noticed throughout.
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The header image has been taken from the recording. I use this image in line with the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988