UWP Heartland’s 'Godspell Jr.' features cast of local middle and high school talent

PLATTEVILLE — In March, auditions were held on the University of Wisconsin-Platteville campus for the Heartland Festival’s production of “Godspell Jr.” Area middle and high school students auditioned for roles in the bible-based musical. Four months later, the 27-member cast and crew have started preparations for performances of “Godspell Jr., which will be held on Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25.

Directing “Godspell Jr.” is Ann Farrelly, UWP theater department faculty member. The musical director for the show is Lori Hillery-Hassig, K-12 music instructor in the Cuba City school district.

"Godspell Jr." is based on the gospel of St. Matthew and is a celebration of the life and teachings of Jesus, from his baptism to his death on the cross. It has been produced thousands of times since it was written in 1970. “With a nation at war, and a generation attempting to make sense of that war, ‘Godspell’ offered a message of peace and hope,” said Farrelly.

According to Farrelly, "Godspell Jr." creates an entertaining and powerful story of a teacher who implores his friends to "love one another", "judge not lest you be judged," and "be the light of the world."

The musical will be held in the Richard and Helen Brodbeck Concert Hall in the Center for the Arts, located on the UWP campus. All performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices are $10 for adults and $5 for UWP students with a valid ID or individuals under the age of 18. Tickets are available through the University Box Office at (608) 342-1298 or at http://tickets.uwplatt.edu.