Middle School Shines in ‘Godspell Jr.’ Celebrating ESD’s 50th Anniversary
May 16, 2025
On May 8–10, the Episcopal School of Dallas Middle School brought joy, heart, and inspiration to the stage with a vibrant production of the Broadway Jr. version of Godspell. The musical was selected to honor the school’s 50th anniversary, aligning with our own humble beginnings.
Middle School Choir Director Susan Wiles shared that Godspell was originally created as a master’s thesis by John-Michael Tebelak. He was actually a student at Carnegie Mellon University around the same time ESD was founded! The musical, first built on improvised parables and traditional Episcopal hymns, has grown over the years into a beloved stage production, with additional music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin). Its core message is one of love: God’s love for creation, Jesus’ love for all people, and the disciples’ love for each other.
The ESD adaptation placed the story in a coastal setting, a creative nod to the school’s history and its founding moments on a beach in Galveston. Conversations with Performing Arts Chair Lauren Redmond, Upper School Tech Theater Teacher Ronnie Watson, and Middle School Lighting Designer Chris Treviño helped shape a simple, meaningful set complete with boardwalk elements, greenery, and a custom-built lifeguard chair. That chair, crafted by Upper School students, was later transformed into a cross during the show’s emotional finale.
In this beach-inspired version, Jesus wore a lifeguard T-shirt, reinforcing the visual metaphor. The production also featured a large shofar, on loan from faculty member Mrs. Oltman, used by the character of John the Baptist/Judas to call the community to baptism—an imaginative and powerful moment.
A favorite element for many cast members was the culture of encouragement and camaraderie. Bourne, a cast member, penned a “Pump Up Song” that quickly became a backstage anthem. As the beat went:
“And we hit the stage like hoo
day by day like hoo
late nights like hoo
overtime like hoo”
One student shared, “I’m so glad to be a part of this wonderful experience! We have all grown so close and will forever be bonded through this show.”
Another added, “Having rehearsals helped my days feel shorter because I had something to look forward to.”
Upper School students played a key role in the success of the production. Matilda Houghton ‘27 choreographed the show—her third time doing so for the Middle School, following Guys and Dolls, which she also performed in as an eighth grader. Jordan Johnson ’27 has been a reliable backstage presence since fifth grade. Tag Bostian ’27 managed the music tech for the production, continuing his long-standing role in the Middle School theater program. Seniors Emily Singleton and Jack Cronin helped design and build the set, lending their skills and leadership to bring the vision to life.
"The cast formed a special bond during this production, and the support from Upper School students was incredible," said Wiles. "Their time, talent, and spirit are a true gift to our community."
One cast member shared, “This show was more than just a performance — it became a family.”
With a message rooted in love and a production shaped by collaboration, faith, and creativity, Godspell Jr. became a highlight of the school year and a fitting celebration of ESD’s 50th milestone.
Congratulations to the cast, crew, and production team for bringing this meaningful musical to life.
