Broadway Revival of Godspell Off for Fall

The previously announced Broadway revival of Stephen Schwartz' Godspell, which was to have starred Gavin Creel and Diana DeGarmo, has been "postponed," according to a statement issued on August 19. The show had been set to start previews at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre on September 29, directed by Broadway newcomer Daniel Goldstein.

"I am devastated that, due to the loss of a major investor in the harsh reality of a slowing economy, there were no other options at this time than to postpone," producer Adam Epstein said in a statement. "I could not in good conscience move forward without full confidence that the capitalization was in place and that all of those employed by the production could be responsibly taken care of. Even in light of the situation, my passion for this vibrant production is unwavering and it is my goal to regroup as soon as possible." Epstein, Broadway Across America, Stewart F. Lane and Bonnie Comley were listed as lead producers.

The revival would have marked the first Broadway mounting of Godspell since its original run transferred from off-Broadway to Broadway over 30 years ago. Schwartz had given the production his blessing, appearing at industry functions in support of the show. "I take comfort in my belief that productions happen when they are supposed to," the composer said in a statement. "The cast and creative team was poised to create a terrific production and I have no doubt it will be just that when its time comes."

In addition to Creel as Jesus and DeGarmo, the announced cast of Godspell was to have included Uzo Aduba, Andrew Arrington, Sara Chase, Celisse Henderson, Joshua Henry, Morgan James, David Josefberg, Telly Leung. Kyle Post, Dana Steingold, Maria Thayer and Daniel Torres. Tony nominee Christopher Gattelli South Pacific had signed on as the choreographer.

Godspell is the third previously announced revival to cancel plans for the forthcoming Broadway season, following Brigadoon and For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow is Enuf. Two new musicals have also cancelled planned pre-Broadway runs: Angels, which had been set for a run in Shreveport, LA, and Nice Work If You Can Get It starring Harry Connick Jr., which had announced plans for a Boston tryout this fall.