THEATER REVIEW:

During the three decades that have passed since South Coast Repertory first introduced “Godspell” to local audiences, most of our community theaters and colleges have offered their interpretations of this popular rock-gospel musical.

One notable exception has been Vanguard University, which would have been a logical venue for this show, steeped as it is in religious education. Now this Costa Mesa collegiate company has weighed in with a highly energetic as well as a particularly visceral version.

“Godspell,” as most theatergoers have long been aware, is an updated version of the New Testament, in which the life and teachings of Jesus are retold in more modern terms. Director Vanda Eggington has further updated the show from its original ’70s format to the 21st century (with the exception of several “Wizard of Oz” references) and added a number of contemporary lines.

Vanguard’s “Godspell” is, handily, set in an abandoned theater replete with props from past productions. And, even though the long, tedious prologue has been excised, the show still clocks in at nearly three hours.

This is a musical that revolves around its central character like few others, and in Ryan Miller, the university has come up with an ideal representation of Jesus. Miller wields his benign authority informally over his eight subjects with a twinkle in his eye, then stiffens and grows in personal power as the stakes are raised in the second act and the crucifixion approaches.

The other actors all function as members of an eager ensemble, acting out Jesus’ parables and doubling as the forces he battles on his way to Calvary. There is some impressive group work here, notably during the “We Beseech Thee” number toward the end of the show and “Light of the World,” which closes the first act.

Most impressive in the ensemble are Candace Miser, who belts out the torchy “Turn Back, O Man” to open the second act, and Royen Kent, whose booming voice advises people to “Prepare Ye” as the show opens.

Others lending staunch support are Paige Brinskele, Rachelle Johnson, Tim Lavino, Dain Ouradnik, Will Pruett and Chrissy Summering. The latter fronts a pair of engaging numbers and is among the stronger voices in the cast, while Donna Johnson’s snappy choreography amplifies the fine work of the four-piece orchestra high above the action.

A past criticism of this show is the absence of a resurrection scene. Vanguard accomplishes this with a little illusory touch that illustrates the Gospel’s point splendidly.

Yes, “Godspell” has been around the block a few times locally, but Vanguard’s up-to-date production displays how this rock-gospel musical can be evergreen, requiring only the sheer creativity of each director and cast to reflect relevance for a new generation.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: “Godspell”

WHERE: Vanguard University, 55 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa

WHEN: 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 and 8 p.m. Sundays through Oct. 4

COST: $14 to $17

CALL: (714) 668-6145

TOM TITUS reviews local theater for the Daily Pilot. His reviews appear Thursdays.