Columbine United Church to present ‘Godspell’ with professional and community cast

Musical runs just one weekend, Aug. 1-3 in Littleton and features a female Jesus.

Columbine United Church will present Stephen Schwartz’s beloved musical Godspell for three performances in early August, marking the first theatrical production for the open and affirming congregation.

The production will run Friday, Aug. 1 and Saturday, Aug. 2 at 7 p.m., with a Sunday matinee on Aug. 3 at 2 p.m. in the church sanctuary at 6375 South Platte Canyon Road in Littleton.

Rev. Samantha Bronson, who is producing the show, said the church hopes to offer a message of love and community during divisive times.

“I think Godspell has endured through the years because of its evergreen message about the power of community,” Bronson said. “Jesus’ message in the show and, of course, in the Gospels is ‘love,’ over and over again.”

The production features a mix of Colorado theatre professionals and community members. Anna Maria High will play Jesus, with John Mackey as Judas. Steven J. Burge, a recent Henry Award nominee who has performed at the Denver Center and Arvada Center, is directing alongside co-director LuAnn Buckstein.

“With Christian Nationalists seeming to dominate the headlines these days, I am thrilled to explore the kinder, loving side of Christianity and humanity through Godspell,” Burge said.

The director has gained attention for his nontraditional casting choices, including an all-female cast for A Christmas Carol at Aurora Fox Arts Center and diverse casting for Cannibal the Musical at Town Hall Arts Center.

“Anna is incredible. Anyone who has heard her sing knows that,” Burge says. “I didn’t cast Anna as Jesus because she’s a woman. I cast her because she is a wildly talented performer. She’s also a member of the Music Worship team at Columbine United Church. And I wanted to work with her.” Plus, he says, “After I cast Anna as ‘Jesus’ in Godspell, Cynthia Erivo got cast as Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl. So, we’re just setting trends at CUC, is all.”

The cast also includes adult ensemble members from the congregation and community, as well as a youth ensemble featuring six young performers.

Tickets are available here on a “pay-what-you-can” basis with a suggested donation of $20. Proceeds will support the church’s outreach and support programs.