MARYSVILLE, CA (MPG) - Remember that great song, “Day by Day?” How about “Prepare Ye” or “Beautiful City?” Did you know these were written 50 years ago for the musical Godspell by young lyricist and composer Stephen Lawrence Schwartz who also wrote Pippin, Wicked, and contributed to Disney classics like Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame and Enchanted? Yuba Sutter Arts & Culture in collaboration with Convergence Theatre Company is proud to present Godspell at the Sutter Theater Center for the Arts.

You know the stories. The teachings of Jesus Christ have impacted the world in more ways than can be imagined. They’ve been translated into countless languages, inspired the development of nations, been fought over in wars, and can be found near the core of many of the world’s major religions. Inspired by the “Jesus People” movement of the early 70s, Godspell is a reimagining of the Gospel of Matthew with contemporary comedy, rock/folk music, and a desire to explore the powerful message of hope, community and love found in these teachings. Loved by Christian and secular audiences alike, Godspell has remained popular for half a century and continues to remind audiences of the radical and inclusive message of Jesus Christ and his rag-tag bunch of followers.  Don’t be worried. This isn’t a church service, nor is it sacrilegious. The show is an energetic, participatory celebration of love for our fellow humans that will have you humming the tunes and discussing your beliefs on the drive home. Although the show has a Christian theme, its message of community will appeal to all faiths. Take a chance on Godspell. You’ll be glad you did.

The show opens on Friday, July 7 and runs through July 16.  July 7, 8, 14, and 15 shows start at 7pm (doors open at 6:30) and there are matinee performances on July 9, 15 and 16 starting at 2pm (doors open at 1:30). General admission tickets are $20 and VIP/Splash Zone tickets are $25. What’s that you say? What are VIP/Splash Zone tickets? Splash zone tickets include an audience participation goodie bag, VIP seating near the stage and the strong probability of getting slightly wet. To purchase tickets, go to yubasutterarts.org or call 530-742-2787.

The show is co-directed by Lydia Crist and Betsy Johnson. The vocal director is Cassie Fifield and Choreography is by Jerusha Reid and Sarah Walker. The cast includes Salma Alfaqeeh, Kelly Cunningham, Crystal DeMeritt, Ben Fifield, Cassie Fifield, Ethan Fifield, Grayson Hayes, Toad Mote, Noah Mote, and Jerusha Reid.

Co-Director, Lydia Crist said, “Godspell is such a special show, and co-directing it has been an absolute dream. It is goofy, interactive, and fun, all the while bringing the audience back to the basics of what it means to love and care for the people around us.” She added, “Throughout the rehearsal process, the cast has become a tight-knit community, and watching their joy and dedication both to the piece and to one another has been extremely life-giving. We hope you ‘come sing about love’ with us this July!”

Also, while attending the play, plan to visit the Theater Art Gallery. See art in a variety of genres created by local artists. You will enjoy a unique art experience and your purchases of original art will help support artists, so it is a real win-win for all involved. There’s plenty of free parking on the streets and parking lots near the Sutter Theater Center for the Arts. For more information about Godspell and other YSAC programs, go to yubasutterarts.org.