Ashton Schaffer, a 2015 James Madison graduate, is directing a children’s summer drama camp and an intergenerational production of “Godspell” this week at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Vienna (2589 Chain Bridge Road).
When asked why he made the decision to take on this project during his summer break, Shaffer, 20, a musical theater major at Rider University in New Jersey said, “Godspell is a musical about finding hope in the face of despair. It's about going into a dark world and finding the light. Those are stories that the world needs to hear. In this mixed up world, it's hard to find a light in the darkness. My reasoning behind directing Godspell is to offer hope, and be a glimmer of light to anyone who comes and sees the show." Shaffer has been performing in theater productions for years, including some regional productions in the Washington, D.C. area. His list of shows includes “Les Miserables,” “Music Man,” “Pippin,” and “Romeo and Juliet.”
No tickets are necessary to attend the performances on Friday, Aug. 5 and Saturday, Aug. 6 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Aug. 7 at 1 p.m. in the church’s sanctuary. However, a goodwill offering will be taken for The Lamb Center in Fairfax, which works to assist the area’s homeless.
According to Dave Larrabee, The Lamb Center’s Executive Director, his organization does more than just feed or house the homeless. “The Lamb Center is a place where those without housing in Fairfax County can get a meal and a shower, get their clothes washed and their medical needs met. More than focusing on the physical and spiritual needs of their guests, the Lamb Center is a place where community is formed, and lives are transformed. The Lamb Center is grateful that Emmanuel Lutheran's production of Godspell will serve to bless the lives of our many guests.”
Visit www.TheLambCenter.org for more information about how the organization helps the homeless get back on their feet. Visit www.elcvienna.org to learn more about the production and Emmanuel Lutheran Church or call 703-938-2119.