Godspell postpones Broadway engagement indefinitely


Producer Adam Epstein announced today that the Broadway bound production of Godspell, previously scheduled to play the Ethel Barrymore Theatre has been postponed. The production was to have opened on 23 Oct 2008, following previews from 29 Sep 2008.

Producer Adam Epstein said "I am devastated that, due to the loss of a major investor in the harsh reality of a slowing economy, there were no other options at this time than to postpone. I could not in good conscience move forward without full confidence that the capitalization was in place and that all of those employed by the production could be responsibly taken care of." He added "Even in light of the situation, my passion for this vibrant production is unwavering and it is my goal to regroup as soon as possible."

"I take comfort in my belief that productions happen when they are supposed to. The cast and creative team was poised to create a terrific production and I have no doubt it will be just that when its time comes," said composer Stephen Schwartz.

All ticket holders that purchased via the internet, Telecharge and during the American Express exclusive presale will be automatically refunded. Further refund inquiries may be directed to Telecharge customer service at 212-239-6210.

The musical was to have starred Tony Award nominee Gavin Creel (Modern Millie), playing the title role of 'Jesus,' alongside 'American Idol' finalist Diana DeGarmo

They were to have been joined by Uzo Aduba, Andrew Arrington, Sara Chase, Celisse Henderson, Joshua Henry as 'Judas', Morgan James, David Josefsberg, Telly Leung, Kyle Post, Dana Steingold, Maria Thayer and Daniel Torres).

With music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz ('Wicked,' 'Pippin,' 'The Magic Show') and book by John-Michael Tebelak, the Broadway revival of Godspell was to have reunited the creative team of the critically-acclaimed 2006 Paper Mill Playhouse conception in a completely new production, marking the Broadway debut of director Daniel Goldstein.

The Broadway revival was to have been choreographed by Christopher Gattelli ('Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me'), with scenic design by David Korins ('Passing Strange', 'Bridge and Tunnel'), costumes by Miranda Hoffman ('Well'), lighting by Ben Stanton ('Altar Boyz') and sound by Randy Hanson.

The score, by Academy and Grammy Award winner and six time Tony Award nominee Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin), features recognizable songs, such as "Day by Day", that have become staples of both the American musical theatre and popular culture alike. With a book by John-Michael Tebelak, Godspell is based upon "The Gospel of Matthew."

The production would have marked the first Broadway revival of Godspell since its run ended thirty years ago.

Godspell opened off-Broadway at the Cherry Lane Theatre on 13 May 1971 and in August of 1971 moved to the larger Promenade Theatre where it ran for 2,124 performances making it one of the longest running Off-Broadway musicals in history.

After five years of sold-out audiences Off-Broadway, Godspell made its Broadway debut on 22 Jun 1976 at the Broadhurst Theatre. The show moved to the Plymouth and the Ambassador before closing on 4 Sep 1977 after 527 performances. In all, the musical achieved more than 2,600 performances both on Broadway and off.

Originally published on

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