When Godspell first appeared in 1971, it featured a group of clowns in “hippie” garb with the action taking place in an abandoned playground in New York. Now, forty years on, Witham Amateur Operatic Society felt it appropriate to revive the musical in a British and very topical, 21st century setting. Based on the Gospel according to St Matthew, it features a sparkling score by Stephen Schwarz interspersed with parables re-enacted, with no small degree of humour, by Jesus and a disparate set of disciples who had found themselves drawn together to protest the construction of a new supermarket – an extremely topical setting!

Rehearsals are well under way, and the small but very enthusiastic cast are delighted to be singing a string of well-loved songs including the international hit “Day By Day” and enacting the parables through song and dance, comedy and mime. Godspell is a charming and unique reflection on the life of Jesus, with a message of kindness, tolerance and love.

Godspell runs nightly at 7.30 p.m. from Monday 24th to Saturday 29th October at the Public Hall, Witham with a 2.30 p.m. matinee on Saturday. Further details can be found on the website www.waos.org. Tickets are now available by telephoning 0845 475 0420 or by email to boxoffice@waos.org. The Box Office for bookings in person will commence at the Public Hall at 10 a.m. on Saturday 15th October.