GODSPELL

MEDIA RELEASE MUSICAL THEATRE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Starlight Productions STARLIGHT CONTINUES TO VAMP UP THE BRISBANE PROFESSIONAL THEATRE SCENE When the Schonell Theatre closed its doors as a cinema venue earlier this year, Brisbane based theatre company Starlight Productions took it upon themselves to re-launch the Schonell as a contemporary hot spot for live professional theatre. Now, following the runaway success of their debut production of the RENT, Starlight Musical Theatre is continuing that quest with their latest venture, the Broadway smash hit Godspell. Conceived and originally directed by John-Michael Tebelak, with music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, “Godspell” is one of the biggest off-Broadway and Broadway successes of all time. Based on the Gospel According to St. Matthew, and featuring a sparkling score by Stephen Schwartz, “Godspell” boasts a string of well-loved songs, led by the international hit, “Day By Day.” Drawing from various theatrical traditions “Godspell” is a groundbreaking and unique reflection on the life of Jesus, with a message of kindness, tolerance and love. Under the direction of award winning actor/ director Jack Bradford, Godspell features a showcase of hot Brisbane talent including seasoned actors such as Matilda Emerging Artist award nominees Michael Balk, Dirk Hoult and Judy Hainsworth. Director Jack Bradford says what makes Godspell such a crowd pleaser is its ability to balance hilarious comedy and meaningful drama in a format that leaves so much to interpretation. “You can pretty much take the foundations of the show and build your own Godspell from the ground up to make it relevant to any era,” he says. “Audiences will love the romp-roaring comedy and the way the actors jump into the audience at every opportunity and play and sing with them. They make the pace and the rhythm of the comedy come alive. Godspell is not just a play, it’s an experience.” Bradford says the success of Godspell would mean Starlight could continue to build quality theatre with contemporary professional shows in 2007. “RENT was a big jump for Starlight! At that point we were supported by Schonell management, but now we are on our own,’ “We need to continue to communicate to the new Schonell management that we need support and focus that will allow a more long term approach to great theatre at the Schonell.” For any further information, photos or interviews please phone Media Contact Elizabeth Best on 0413 990 443 or email bestpublicity@hotmail.com