by Barry Willis

In the early 1970s, in the wake of the phenomenal success of the groundbreaking musical “Hair” came a spate of hippie-era religious-themed productions—“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” “Jesus Christ, Superstar,” and “Godspell” among them.

This last-mentioned show is enjoying a revival with some contemporary updates at Lucky Penny Productions in Napa. Based on the Book of Matthew, it’s an all-female musical depicting the teachings of Jesus to his apostles. Set in a contemporary urban environment, the show is a fascinating song-and-dance piece with some current comedic bits thrown in as spice – comedic bits that did not sit well with at least one true believer on opening weekend, according to a couple of cast members.

In loose white clothing, Sarah Lundstrom effectively embodies the spiritual leader, admonishing followers to be kind and treat others as they might like to be treated. The ragtag troupe more-or-less follows the advice, with some misunderstandings and animosity among them as they do so. The tale culminates, of course, in a depiction of the Last Supper and Crucifixion

With imposing stage presence and her powerful alto/contralto, Dani Innocenti-Beem tackles the role of Judas, the betrayer. Also one of the North Bay’s most talented comic talents, she gets little chance to provoke laughs in a serious role. That duty falls to castmates such as Emma Sutherland, rife with pratfalls, silly dance moves, and goofy voices.

The show’s a lot of semi-irreverent fun, but not an exercise in blasphemy. Director Barry Martin stated that he had chosen the play because he felt the world needs a positive reminder about how humans should treat each other. It’s a message that bears repeating day after day forever.

March 21-22 is closing weekend and the Sunday matinee may be sold out. Get to Lucky Penny and enjoy this now-classic take on an ancient tale. Apologies to all for the late coverage!

Godspell runs through March 22 at the Lucky Penny Community Arts Center in Napa.

Click HERE for more info.

Photos by Kurt Gonsalvez / KMG Design

Barry Willis is a member of the American Theatre Critics Association and president of the San Francisco Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle. Contact: barry.m.willis@gmail.com