BEAVER SPRINGS — The Middlecreek Council on the Arts', or Generoo's, production of "Godspell" will not carry the stigma of its 1970s movie, directed by David Greene, which depicts Jesus Christ and others in hippie garb, says director Chad Briggs.

"Anyone interested should come with an open mind. We've made this production our own," he said, of the performance which will take place July 29 at 7 p.m. and continue through the weekend at the West Snyder Middle School.

The film, which was criticized by some to be making a mockery of parables of the Bible, has been said to be a miscommunication about hippies. "I've watched parts of the movie," said Scott Umstead, who plays the role of Jesus Christ in the show. "I was uncomfortable with it, but I think we're doing it in a more respectful way."

Briggs clarified that "Godspell" puts a unique prospective on Biblical stories.

"It's a different way of looking at some of (Christ's) teachings and we do that through pantomime, mimicry, song and dance," he said. Briggs, who has never directed before, has a background primarily in acting and has been in two Generoo productions.

While he would rather be acting, he took this opportunity as a chance to have an outlet for planning his September wedding.

"There's also some joy in helping others unlock what's inside them in terms of talent and ability," he said. "Whether you're a Christian or not, I think everyone can appreciate its message."

Of his part, Umstead said "(Jesus) is kind of like the ring master in the parables ... He acts them out throughout the production."

Umstead, who grew up in the church, said that to get into his part, he tried to think about what Christ felt like during times such as his crucifiction.

"I felt (Umstead) was good for this role as he is very enthusiastic with charisma, but is also relatable and can still maintain that idea of being human while playing Jesus," Briggs said.

In the show, Matthew Fry, 15, who portrays Jeffrey and Jean Sartre, is described by Briggs as having high energy, an infectious smile and an upbeat attitude. He pretends to have a crush on Sonia (Tammy Cramer).

After recently playing Linus in "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown," he said he found it difficult to get into a role because he had to pretend to have a crush on an adult.

"It was kind of hard to adjust," he said. "I went from acting like a kid and carrying around a blanket to being a tax gatherer."

To prepare for his part as Linus, Fry said he watched his little sister. He also watched Charlie Brown shows and noted how the characters shuffle their feet when they walk. He was able to incorporate this into the show.

"Now I try to watch what other people are doing," he said. On flirting with an adult, Fry said "It's kind of awkward because I'm a kid, but that's acting."

Briggs said casting the two for their parts was also an opportunity to help Cramer break out of her shell.

"Casting (Cramer) in this clearly awkward dynamic with Matthew has forced her to leave her comfort zone and help make her character more of her own, rather than just an idea she is portraying," he said.

Cramer, too, said getting into her part was an awkward adjustment because she works with children and youth daily.

"My character is sassy and a flirt ... and I'm nothing like that," she said. "We geared my character after Tracy Turnblad, in "Hairspray."

Cramer said she hasn't acted since high school and has found that going to rehearsals gave her a chance to "get out and relax.