Ohio Christian University Presents “Godspell” This Weekend
Article presented by Rathkamp Financial …
Ohio Christian University is performing Godspell this weekend in the Ministry and Performing Arts Center on the campus just east of Circleville.
This vibrant and uplifting production has a limited run, April 17-19. Known for its high-energy music, heartfelt storytelling, and messages of kindness and community, Godspell promises an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.
Production Director Alan Bradley told Litter Media “We fell in love with the music and the message behind it. It’s so positive, it’s very uplifting and we came to realize over time ‘We think this is great for our cast and for us as a crew’ and we think it’s awesome for the audiences we normally have.”
Featuring a tight-knit cast of talented OCU students and alumni, this production brings a fresh and creative take to the classic musical. With a mix of humor, modern-day parables, and beloved songs like “Day by Day” and “Beautiful City,” the show explores themes of love, friendship, betrayal, and finding joy and hope in everyday life.
“We believe we’ve sought diligently for the sincerity of the gospels” said Stage Manager Abrahm Heimbach. “Especially the gospels of Matthew and Luke. I think we put on a very fun, yet serious and authentic depiction Jesus’ ministry and his teachings.”
Ellie Cochenour is one of the actors who says she adapted to the parts she portrays rather quickly. “They kinda gave us an idea of the concept they wanted us to go towards. For me it was that ‘drama girl’ of the group. So, I have a little bit of spunk. a little bit of sass … over time we just developed a background for our characters” said Cochenour. “We talked about what our life was before Christ, what it looked like when we got baptized and when we truly began to follow Jesus. When I see how Jesus, our Teacher responds, I see how he responds with compassion and that really moves me to really start following Jesus.”
Bradley added “We’re passionate about bringing Godspell back to the stage because, honestly, it’s been around for a while and it’s a great show.”
Audiences can expect a lively, immersive atmosphere, with dynamic staging and a cast that interacts with the crowd. Whether you’re familiar with Godspell or are seeing it for the first time, this production offers something very meaningful and entertaining for everyone. The production team would like to note that this production of Godspell will adhere to the original stage adaptation and not the film version, bringing a reverent appreciation for faith alongside the playful mood of the show.
Performance Dates: April 17th at 7:00 PM, April 18th at 7:00 PM, April 19th at 3:00 PM
Location: Ministry and Performing Arts Center 1476 Lancaster Pike, Circleville
Tickets will be available at the door, and advance tickets are available online at www.purplepass.com/godspellocu
WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW with Alana Bradley, Ellie Cochenour and Abraham Heimbach below.
