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Did you come to see 'The Return' at St John's Church in Keynsham across the weekend of October 9th and 10th 2009?
If you did, we are sure you will agree you saw an incredibly moving Christian musical based on the parable of the Prodigal Son. If you didn't, do not fear, you can always get a copy on DVD, or explore the pictures from the show here on the website. 'The Return' was written and directed by Roger Peach, the church's musical director. The timeless story included a fresh twist with a contemporary setting and two daughters instead of two sons. The production involved performers from St John's Church, St John's School and others from the community as part of the ongoing More to Life programme in Keynsham and Saltford.
If you saw the production and want to see it again, or you didn't and would like to, you can order a DVD @ £10 (£11 to include postage where necessary) then do please contact Roger Peach at the Parish Office 0117 9863354 office@keynshamparish.org.uk
Comments on 'The Return':
We would like to thank everyone who was involved in this brilliant musical. It was such a moving show full of varied emotions with happy and sad songs. We congratulate all of the talented cast with a special mention of the 3 soloists – Simon, Angharad and Christabel. They really lived their parts and their portrayals were very heartfelt and real thereby promoting a very strong message.
The production was the brainchild of Roger Peach. We thank Roger very much for providing us with an extremely moving and very enjoyable evenings entertainment.
When is your next production?
Patricia and Peter Lewis
The Return...an appreciation
There are few, if any, more poignant of Jesus’ parables than that of the Prodigal Son, and Musical Director Roger Peach’s interpretation in words, songs and orchestral music captured brilliantly the moods of selfishness, desolation, despair, rejoicing, jealousy and reconciliation of the story.
That the Prodigal son became the prodigal daughter in Roger’s version mattered not a bit as there are as many females as males backpacking off into the often hedonistic world today. Moreover it gave two of our Choristers the chance to show their talents. St John’s choir, backed by children from St John’s school and two dancing girls were the villagers. Team Vicar Simon Howell sang the part of the initially saddened then joyful reconciling father. Christabel Sadowski was the rebellious daughter who went off to have a good time and Angharad Watkeys the jealous home-staying elder daughter. All the solo parts were excellently rendered.
The orchestral contribution under Roger’s baton was expressive as was the staging and lighting under the direction of Sue Sprague and Angharad Watkeys. Sue Stevens was the narrator.
The story of the Prodigal son has been told in many ways, mostly in hymns such as the verse ‘perverse and foolish oft I strayed, but yet in love He sought me, and on His shoulder gently laid, and home rejoicing brought me.’ This version reminded us yet again of God’s everlasting mercy.
A wonderful presentation of a wonderful parable.
Jim Allen
Why not check out some photographs from 'The Return'?
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