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18 THE COURIER SUN • SEPTEMBER 18, 2014 FOR BREAKING NEWS VISIT www.couriersun.com ‘Godspell’ sees the light at RTC A blackened warehouse is pierced by the glow of a dozen lights. Shadowy fi gures pour onto the stage and into the orchestra pit. Trumpet blasts! Full stage lights! The musical story of “Godspell,” as told by the Rockaway Theatre Company, is about to unfold. On opening night, the magical mixture of biblical attitudes and modern sensibilities is stirred to a boil by an outstanding cast and crew. The ten performers act out a series of parables. Although each actor displays individual talent and charisma, the show makes a stronger statement as an ensemble. Director/scenic designer Frank Caiati, assistant director Kimberly Simek and producer Susan Jasper dig deep into their theatrical bag of tricks to absolutely dazzle the audience. Water gushes from overhead into a wooden fountain below (created by master set carpenter Anthony Homsey). Bright, bold costumes are abundant. Are they throwbacks to the rebellious 1960s, the punk 1980s or to a timeless circus carnival? Matthew Smilardi, the costume designer, is also the story’s central character. He delivers his powerful words and releases his emotions in a superhero’s uniform. New cast members Karen Mascolo, Renee Steadman, Jackie Samaha, Michelle Ricciardi and Matt Leonen (in his second production with RTC) join in Act II’s “Day by Day” as dozens of audience members are welcomed on stage for the exuberant sing-along. Veteran RTC performer Chazmond J. Peacock is as wonderfully irreverent as always, while displaying a full range of emotions. Nicole Mangano and Stephen Ryan have spent several seasons with RTC. They add an intense, confi dent edge to the project. John Panepinto plays both good guy and bad guy with a passionate combination of fervor and angst. The six-piece orchestra led by Jeffrey & Heather Arzberger deliver their unrestrained musical message with energy and professionalism. Clever choreography (Gabrielle Mangano) along with a crisp presentation (stage manager Nora Meyers and assistant Jenna Tipaldo, lighting design by Andrew Woodbridge and sound design by Rich Louis-Pierre) provides vital support. In today’s troubled times, the troupe has taken the lessons from “Godspell” and taught them to us with a touch of class. The unmistakable warmth that always glows from the audience and the performers gives RTC their brightest light. For information on this show and their upcoming “Damn Yankees” call 718-374-6400 or visit their website at www.rockawaytheatrecompany.org. As always, save me a seat on the aisle. A VIEW FROM THE CLIFF BY CLIFF KASDEN SHANA TOVA May the trumpeting of the shofar herald in a sweet new year filled with good health, prosperity and peace for all. Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin; Cantor Shiya Ribowsky; David Hasson, President; The Officers; Board of Trustees, and Congregation of Israel Center of Conservative Judaism Renew Your Jewish Connection by Joining the ICCJ Family CONTACT RAbbI FRYeR bOdzIN FOR MORe INFORMATION: TelePHONe: 718-591-5610 e-mAIl: RABBIRFB@ICCJ2004.ORg Israel Center of Conservative Judaism 167-11 73rd Ave. Flushing, New York 11366 718-591-5353 To find out more about us, watch our video on ICCJ2004.org The College for Professional Business Careers www.libi.edu Ask About Our 2+2 Bachelor Degree Transfer Option State and Federal Financial Aid Available to Those Who Qualify Vet Friendly For consumer disclosure, please visit www.libi.edu & click Consumer Information link. • Homeland Security & Security Management • Emergency Care Management • Office Technology/Medical Office • Accounting • Hospitality Management • Merchandising & Management • Digital Marketing • Business Management • Court Reporting • Community Interpreter • Health Administration & Technology • Elder Care Administration Manhattan / Queens / Long Island 212.226.7300 718.939.5100 Photo courtesy of RCT/Gabrielle Mangano


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