Chicago Tribune - Recommended
"...After very many experiences of watching wide-eyed young folk preparing the way of the Lord, I can pretty much recount every line of this classic 1971 hippy-dippy pop musical with the superglue score by Stephen Schwartz ("Wicked") and an of-its-time book by John-Michael Tebelak. In fact, the show brings back a traumatic student memory: as a freshman in the 1980s I was cast to sing "We Beseech Thee" and had to pull my first a-Cappella note from the braying of the ensemble sheep. But I digress. "Godspell" is just such a darn cheerful, warm and loving show. For the past 50-odd years, critics have said some version of the cliche, "now more than ever, we need "Godspell," and why change that tradition now?"
Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended
"...The heavenly voices of Theo Ubique’s angelic ensemble (directed by Christopher Pazdernik) cannot resurrect this relic. Godspell is more akin to a youth church camp musical improv showcase than traditional musical—even Jesus Christ Superstar feels young compared to this tired work."
Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended
"...Their current production "Godspell" conceived by John-Michael Tebelak with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz ,directed to perfection by Christopher Pazdernik. is an amazing version of this musical piece. If you have never been to Theo Ubique's space, The Howard Street Theatre, located at 721 West Howard Street in Evanston, you need to know that this is what one would call "Cabaret Theater", where drinks and even dinner can be part of your experience. The performers are also the wait staff and are so close you can reach out and touch them. There are even moments where you think you might be a part of the show. Don't worry! You will not be brought up into the action."
Chicagoland Musical Theatre - Highly Recommended
"...Everybody sing! Because if we ever needed a little Godspell in our lives, it’s today. This now 50-year-old musical retelling of the Gospel of Matthew could teach Christian churches a thing or two. They could stop worrying about empty pews on Sundays if only they’d convey Jesus’ story with the magnificent voices Director Christopher Pazdernik has assembled in his terrific cast now appearing at Evanston’s Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre."
Chicago On Stage - Highly Recommended
"...I think that the last time I saw a production of Godspell it had only been a few years since its premiere. If that is true for you as well, don’t worry: no one has messed with the show you loved all those years ago. Well, in most ways, anyway. The songs are still the same, the/ performer playing Jesus still speaks in parables, and the other cast members have the best time of their lives as they clown around, dance, set up bits, and generally make these New Testament stories come alive in (mostly) comical and uplifting ways. They may not tell the stories in the same way they did in the 70s, and Jesus may not be wearing Superman’s “S” anymore, but this (again, mostly) joyful retelling of the Gospel of Matthew will still make you feel good, whether or not you are Christian."
Picture This Post - Recommended
"...For those who are fans of the original Godspell, or just those who are looking for an upbeat musical, this production would be a good fit for you. For those who aren’t super into religious shows, this might not be your cup of tea."
NewCity Chicago - Highly Recommended
"...“Earth shall be fair and all her people one,” sings one saucy disciple in Theo Ubique’s new production of “Godspell,” written by John-Michael Tebelak with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. Though “Godspell” was first produced just over fifty years ago with words that were first written thousands of years ago, its lessons could not be more timely. Now is the time to come together in peace and love."
