Fifty years after its theatrical debut, the musical “Godspell” returns to the stage at Fort Scott Community College in an exciting, powerful new form next month.

Called “a ‘Godspell’ for the new millennium” by Paul Shaffer, who conducted the Toronto production of the original musical in March 1972, the show was revised in 2012 with gritty new dialogue and edgy new arrangements of the memorable songs.

“This is not the version staged here in 2013,” said Allen Twitchell, FSCC theater instructor, who is directing the musical with the assistance of Dr. Denissa Rivas, FSCC music instructor, and Rachel Dugan, choreographer, of Fort Scott. “Our version is told by a group of homeless young people set amidst the urban decay of a metropolitan city who elect to follow the teachings of a messiah-like figure preaching peace, love and community.”

The musical was conceived and originally directed by John-Michael Tebelak with music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. “Godspell” was originally produced on the New York stage by Edgar Lansbury, Stuart Duncan and Joseph Beruh.

Shows are 7:30 p.m. March 25-26 and 2 p.m. March 27. Admission is $5. FSCC students, faculty and staff are admitted free of charge. Masks are required.

The FSCC cast features: Ray Burch, freshman from St. Louis, as Jesus; Evan Ballinger, freshman from Pleasanton, as Judas; Lexi Ornelas, freshman from Chanute, as Anna Maria; Jacquie Hampton, sophomore from Uniontown, as Celisse; Hyden Wirsig, freshman from Drexel, Mo., as Nick; Sonny Webb, freshman from Tampa, Fla., as Morgan; Colleen Sweat, sophomore from Pleasanton, as Uzo; Robenton Wirsig, freshman from Drexel, Mo., as George; Kiera Threlfall, sophomore from Frontenac, as Telly; Mackenzie Peoples, sophomore from Fort Scott, as Lindsay; Shawn Huffman, freshman from Fort Scott, as Brick; Dray Dickey, freshman from Bronaugh, Mo., as Simon; Paityn Curtis, freshman from LaCygne, as Minnie; Carlee Studyvin, sophomore from Fort Scott, as Rachel; and Joy Nichols, freshman from Moundville, Mo., as Jo.

Meda Hurst, freshman from Fort Scott, is stage manager; Zach Loper, freshman from Girard, supplies the sound; and Dylan Graham, freshman from Tonganoxie, supplies the lights.

“Godspell” is presented through a special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).