Folsom Lake College program launches 20th season with Stage One musical April 17–26
Falcon’s Eye Theatre will open its 20th season this week with a full-scale production of “Godspell” at the Harris Center for the Arts, bringing the musical to Stage One beginning Friday, April 17.
Running through April 26, the production is presented by the theatre program at Folsom Lake College.
Directed by Jennifer Wallace, “Godspell” is based on the Gospel According to St. Matthew and follows a group of performers who come together to present a series of parables through storytelling, games and contemporary stage techniques. The structure of the show emphasizes interaction and ensemble work, using humor and modern presentation to interpret traditional material.
Originally conceived by John-Michael Tebelak as a graduate thesis project at Carnegie Mellon University, “Godspell” was later adapted for the professional stage with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. The production premiered Off-Broadway in 1971 at the Cherry Lane Theatre after Schwartz completed a revised score in a short development window. The musical went on to gain national recognition, including the success of its song “Day by Day,” which reached No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1972.
The score incorporates a range of musical styles, including pop, folk-rock, gospel and vaudeville influences, allowing for a wide variety of performance styles throughout the show. The narrative builds from lighthearted parables toward more serious moments depicting the Last Supper and Crucifixion, shifting the tone while maintaining the ensemble-driven format. Rather than presenting a traditional linear storyline, the production focuses on the development of a community and the continuation of shared messages through its characters.
The production team for this staging includes music and vocal director Graham Sobelman, choreographer Shannon Mahoney, scenic and projection designer Ian Wallace, costume designer Bella McLaughlin, lighting designer Ted Granier, sound designer Cameron Lawson, production stage manager Carlos Llontop and technical director Cameron Hoyt.
Falcon’s Eye Theatre serves as the production arm of the Folsom Lake College Department of Theatre and Cinema and is based at the Harris Center, where it stages performances as part of its academic and public programming. The company produced its first season in 2007 and has presented multiple productions each year since.
Productions feature student performers and crew members responsible for all elements of the show, including acting, choreography, set construction, lighting, costumes and technical execution. Each production is developed on campus, providing hands-on experience across every phase of staging a live theatrical performance.
Performances of “Godspell” are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on April 17, 18, 24 and 25, with matinee performances at 2:00 p.m. on April 19 and April 26.
Tickets are available through the Harris Center box office atwww.harriscenter.netor by calling 916-608-6888, Tuesday through Friday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. More information about the production and Falcon’s Eye Theatre is available atwww.falconseyetheatre.com. Group discounts are available.
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