We went to see this musical on Friday 11th April at St. Andrew’s and found it very moving. Debra had written the whole musical and played the keyboard throughout, accompanied by a wonderful violinist, who also had two roles in the story. Members of St. Andrew’s and from Churches Together in North Bradford formed the choir.
The music was skilfully interwoven with narrative, describing the whole of the Easter story, the narrator reading the Bible story very effectively. Debra focused on the emotions of those involved in the events – Peter, Mary Magdalene, the Priests, Pilate, Judas, Jesus, Mary the Mother of Jesus – bringing the whole story alive. Debra’s words gave real insight into how they might have felt at the time.
The choir sang very movingly, as did the soloists, and Debra’s music was haunting at times. I found myself wanting to join in as the music pulled me into the scenes. There were tableaux in which the principals sang and expressed emotion very compellingly, but not acting in the usual sense of doing things. It was so powerful!
The stage producer had included no “scenery” other than a few props, including a stark wooden cross. Everyone was in black, costumes consisting of shawls, scarves, hats etc. all of which created the essence of the characters amazingly well. I felt as though I was there, I could see the upper room, the streets, the cross on the hill; I believed!
The audience joined in singing the final song - uplifting and joyful:
You did this for me, gave up your life to save me.
Yes you did this for me to show that you care.
Everywhere I may go you’ll be here by my side.
You’ll always be there.
This musical deserves to be seen by a wider audience, perhaps there is some mileage in doing it again next year at another venue?
Lynne K, Wrose
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