Florida Gulf Coast University’s Theatre Department will showcase its first performance involving professional equity performers and crew in “Godspell.”
The show is directed by Mark Danni and opens Thursday, Oct. 2 and runs until Saturday, Oct. 5.
“’Godspell,’ while it deals with teachings out of the Bible, I wouldn’t call it an overly religious show,” Danni said. “I think it’s really more about ways to live your life and done in an incredibly interesting and theatrical way where it brings individuals together to create this community through the biblical stories with a really nice pop-rock score and message.”
Danni said this quick-paced and upbeat show has an even balance between music and dialogue.
In this production there are four professional equity actors, a professional stage manager and a professional costume designer among the student performers and crew. This is the first production at FGCU that will host a professional accompaniment.
“It’s like saying, ‘Here are four pro basketball players that are now going to work with you,’” Danni said.
Danni said that these students were provided with the opportunity to work with professionals on a professional schedule and were even able to enroll in the Equity Membership Candidate Program, which provides them points toward their equity cards. Students earned two points for being involved in the show.
According to the Actors’ Equity Association, the EMC program permits actors and stage managers in training to credit theatrical work in certain Equity theatres towards eventual membership in Equity.
It also states that members working under Equity contracts are entitled to minimum salaries, guaranteed safe and sanitary working conditions and many other benefits.
Danni said that this show has the feel of “The Rocky Horror Show,” with the content and music like “Jesus Christ Superstar.”
Tickets for “Godspell” cost $40 to $45 per person, plus a $2 per ticket fee. They’re available by calling TheatreZone at 1-888-966-3352. With an FGCU ID, students can purchase a ticket at the door for $10.
The show starts at 8 p.m. Oct. 2 and Oct. 3, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Oct. 4 and 7:30 p.m. Oct. 5.