Godspell's Toronto cast: Comedy's royal family reunion

A documentary titled "You Had to Be There: How the Toronto Godspell Ignited the Comedy Revolution" is set to premiere, celebrating the profound impact of the 1972 Toronto production of Godspell. The film features reflections from Canadian comedy stalwarts Eugene Levy, Martin Short, and Andrea Martin, who look back at the groundbreaking 1972 Toronto production. This pivotal theatrical run is credited with launching the careers of numerous comedy luminaries.

The documentary delves into how the show catalyzed a comedy revolution, with talents like Gilda Radner, Victor Garber, and others emerging from the production. Many who were influenced by its legacy, including Lin-Manuel Miranda, also contribute. The cast recounts the transformative experience of performing in Toronto during the 1960s and '70s, a time when the city's cultural scene was less vibrant, and acting careers were not common.

Eugene Levy, Martin Short, and other cast members share personal anecdotes, including how Levy encouraged Short to audition and how Gilda Radner's unique audition for "Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah" captivated the room. The film also touches on the personal bonds formed, with many performers, like Short and Martin, sharing living spaces and developing lifelong friendships, fostering a sense of family and camaraderie. The enduring legacy of this particular Godspell production continues to inspire, with comedians like Mike Myers and Janeane Garofalo acknowledging its influence on their own paths in comedy.