By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
'Godspell' makes a Monroe debut
10038a.jpg
Photo: Creative Photography, Monroe The Monroe Theatre Guild cast of Godspell includes, front from left, Susan Nanning-Sorenson (Madison), Rikka Nelson and Emily Treuthardt (both of Monroe), and back row, Peter Kelly, Tracy Bristow, Herb Wilson, Dave Soderberg, Matt Finkenbinder, Suzanne Miller and Keenan Minogue (all from Monroe).
MONROE - Monroe Theatre Guild announces their upcoming production of "Godspell." This lively musical is one of the biggest off-Broadway and Broadway successes of all time. Based on the Gospel According to St. Matthew, "Godspell" was written by John Michael Tebelak and features a sparkling score and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. The show boasts a string of well-loved songs, led by the international hit, "Day By Day." As the cast performs "Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord," "Learn Your Lessons Well," "All For The Best," "All Good Gifts," "Turn Back, O Man" and "By My Side," the parables of Jesus come humanly and hearteningly to life. Drawing from various theatrical traditions, such as clowning, pantomime, acrobatics and vaudeville, "Godspell" is a groundbreaking and unique reflection on the life of Jesus, with a message of kindness, tolerance and love. For a modern twist, this production will feature a Stomp-inspired rhythm piece and a "Regis Philbinesque" rendition of "Who Wants to Enter the Kingdom of Heaven".

Matt Finkenbinder, first grade teacher at St. Victor School in Monroe, brings to life the emotional role of Jesus. Herb Wilson plays the dual role of John the Baptist and Judas. The rest of the actors in the production assume their own names to bring a more local, community feel to the show. The ten person cast is rounded out with Tracy Bristow, Susan Nanning-Sorenson, Suzanne Miller, Emily Treuthardt, Rikka Nelson, Dave Soderberg, Keenan Minogue and Peter Kelly.

This production is a fun, family friendly event just in time for the Easter season. Making his MTG directing debut, David Sorenson of Madison will lead this fabulous show to the stage of the Monroe High School Performing Arts Center the first two weekends of April. Show times and dates are: 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 3; 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 4; 2 p.m. Sunday, April 5; 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 9; 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 10; and 2 p.m. Saturday, April 11. The evening performances are $12 for non-MTG members and $10 for non-member senior citizens (65+). Member prices for evening performances are $10 and $8 for senior citizens. The matinee shows on April 5 and April 11 will feature $8 tickets for everyone.

During intermission of all performances, cheese, crackers and juices will be offered to all patrons in exchange for a monetary donation with all proceeds going to the Monroe Food Pantry.

Tickets are on sale now at the new MTG Box Office located in the STAGE building, 910 16th Avenue, Monroe. This is one block north of the Monroe Square and directly across from the Monroe Public Library. Box office hours are 4 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday with extended hours on Wednesday from noon to 7 p.m. Tickets can also be ordered by phone by calling (608) 325-1111 during box office hours. More information is available by visiting the MTG Web site at www.monroetheatre.com.