By Lauren Hett, senior

Twenty-three talented Friends University students donned overalls and gingham dresses to present the musical “Cotton Patch Gospel” Jan. 22, 23 and 24.

Based on the book “Cotton Patch Version of Matthew and John” by Clarence Jordan, the show humorously retells the story of Jesus as if it happened in Georgia in the 1930s.

In the Bible, Jesus is born in a stable and receives gifts of gold and costly perfumes. In the musical, he is born in a trailer, and three scholars bring him a Gold American Express card, a peach-scented candle, and “a big, expensive-looking bottle of Old Spice.”

The audience laughed heartily throughout the show, especially when senior K.C. Orren took the stage as Rock, one of Jesus’ disciples.

“My goal was to make the audience happy,” Orren said.

Though deftly performed by professional-quality musicians, the toe-tapping bluegrass music was a bit much at times. The less folksy “Jubilation” and “You are Still My Boy,” a nostalgic duet by Mary and Joe (Celeste Morris and Bryan Foreman), provided welcome relief.

Director Charles Parker chose this show because it gave several students an opportunity to perform.

“‘Cotton Patch’ has several good ensemble pieces where students can shine together instead of focusing on a few people,” Parker said. “Plus, it’s one of my favorites.”

However, not everyone shared his opinion.

“The musical was really funny, but I thought it was kind of sacrilegious,” said Angie Mitchell, freshman.

Audience members gasped at an unnecessary swear word in Act 2. Eyebrows went up when Jesus (Joel Domenico) rose from the dead, let out a sigh of relief and said, “It worked!”

Others appreciated the show’s satirical and often surprising humor, and everyone agreed that the cast did a great job.

“I didn’t know what to expect, but I was blown away,” said Mark Bartel, director of choral music. “When you know everybody on stage, it’s just fun to see them do their thing.”