[PHOTOS] ALJ Students Rock the Stage With 'Godspell'

Arthur L. Johnson High School’s auditorium was filled with exuberant song, colorful costumes, imaginative sets and a cast of very talented student actors, dancers, singers and musicians as they brought the iconic musical, Godspell, to life onstage. 

Director Peter Navargic and Musical Director Rachel Bollaro continued their tradition of successful student productions of Broadway hit musicals at ALJ with this spring's musical, Godspell. Compared to prior years’ musicals, Godspell had a relatively small, but incredibly talented cast. Many of the student actors have appeared in previous plays and musicals at ALJ, and several are also involved in the vocal and instrumental music programs at ALJ. The cast rehearsed for many hours to create this sometimes humorous, sometimes touching and emotional, but always entertaining production, and brought to the stage a professional quality show.

The leading role of Jesus was played by ALJ senior, Andre Silva Dias. Andre, who appeared in last year’s production of Evita, was thrilled to be selected for the lead role of Jesus. Freshman Ryan Kowalenko made his debut in ALJ musicals, playing the dual roles of John the Baptist and Judas. The balance of the student cast were Disciples, including Michael Palermo, Samantha DeSalvo, Ivy Meyer, Brian Milara, Marion Petite, Gabriella Rsende, Lauren Semler and Madison Szlagyi.  Each cast member sang, danced and performed various musical solos throughout the production. The pit orchestra, a small four-student rock-band style ensemble, included Owen Seaver (Student Music Director/piano and keyboard), Odoardo Pacella (bass guitar), Richard Stockl (percussion) and Sean Mulvihill (acoustic and electric guitar).

Congratulations to the entire cast, pit orchestra, backstage, set design, production staff and all who had a hand in bringing Godspell to the stage at ALJ. 

Production Staff

Producing Director/Lighting Designer            Peter Nevargic

Music Director                                             Rachel Bollaro

Set Design and Construction                        Brad Terhune

Production Stage Manager                           Sara Prado

Assistant Stage Manager                             Chloe L. Meyer

Student Choreographer                               Gabriella Resende

Costume Designer(s)                                   Godspell Cast

Student Music Director                                 Owen Seaver

Set Crew:  Rachel Dias, Jimmy Douglas, Sabah El Garhy, Gillian Giancaspro, Danielle Giarrizzo, Raven Haub, Megan Kielbus, Lauren Margel, John Martinez, Melissa McIntyre, Heather Meyer, Kelly Morales, Lisa Patriarca, Stephanie Patriarca, Gianna Pozo, Laura Santiago

Student Tech/Light Board Operator/SFX      Samuel Abbaticola

Spotlight Operators                              Jon Bardzilowski and Devin Araujo

Videography                                              Devin Araujo 

Properties                                                  Sara Prado and Chloe Meyer

Photography                                              Jimmy Douglas

Playbill:   Chris Marcin, Jimmy Douglas, Chris Nervegna, Peter Nevargic

Voice Coach                                               ALJ Alum Rebecca Dias

Student Rehearsal Conductor                      Thomas Spratt