When EMU Theater first presented "Godspell" in 1984, ticket lines streamed back the portico of Lehman Auditorium and stretched out across the campus. For the first time in EMU theater history, people were turned away at the door.

The popular musical, based on the gospel according to St. Matthew, appeals to many audiences with its mixture of modern music influences like rock, gospel and ragtime.

Featuring a 10-member ensemble cast and music and new lyrics by Stephen Swartz, the play builds gradually on a series of New Testament stories to a powerful close depicting the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ.

"'Godspell' offers the timeless words of the One who is the way, the truth and the life, and it offers the kind of music that sends us singing out the door," said Barbra Graber, associate professor of theater at EMU and the play's director. Anne Gross of EMU's music department is musical director.

Admission is $8 in advance, $10 at the door; seniors (65 and over), $6; students, $6 and children ages 5-9, $3. The play is not recommended for children under five. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 3-4 and Oct. 10-11, 2003, with matinees at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5 and 12.