'Joseph and Mary' debuts this weekend

Schedule changes

Submitted Press Release & Photo

Join BelleIsle Entertainment and the Parish Players’ production of “Joseph and Mary,” the all-original rock/pop musical telling through song the story of the first Christmas night. Proceeds will assist in renovating the historic St. Stephen Church into the new Grand Island Cultural Center. Donations of nonperishable food items will benefit The Grand Island Neighbors Foundation’s food pantry. Tickets for the show are available at https://www.zeffy.com/en-us/ticketing/joseph-and-mary.

The updated dates and times are 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7; 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12; and 1 and 7:30 p.m., Saturday Dec. 13, all at the old St. Stephen Church, 2106 Baseline Road.

Begin the Christmas season with a moving and inspiring theatrical experience written by Grand Islander Jerry Cahill and U.K. resident Jim Ineson – one that tells the nativity story with contemporary music, heartfelt emotion, and powerful staging.

Since its founding in 1991 at St. Stephen’s Church, Parish Players has been dedicated to nurturing local talent and bringing meaningful productions to the Grand Island community. This year’s presentation of “Joseph and Mary” continues that tradition, offering audiences an opportunity to reflect on the timeless message of hope, courage and faith at the heart of the Christmas story.

Directed by Karen Conboy, Jenny Kleinschmidt and Linda Burkhart, in collaboration with Cahill, this production brings together a creative team deeply committed to honoring the sacred narrative while presenting it in a fresh, modern style reminiscent of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” Their vision blends Cahill and Ineson’s expressive music and lyrics with dynamic movement and emotional storytelling to create a performance that will resonate with audiences of all ages.

The production benefits from the exceptional costume design of Deb Jones, whose thoughtful artistry brings authenticity and visual richness to every character on stage. In addition, the beautiful and emotionally layered vocal arrangements crafted by Tenille Trenchard elevate the musical score, adding depth and dimension to this contemporary retelling of the nativity.

With a cast and crew of over 30 talented performers and volunteers from across Grand Island and surrounding communities, the production proudly features an ecumenical ensemble representing several local faith communities, including parishioners from St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, Trinity United Methodist Church, and St. Stephen R.C. Church. Leading the cast are Anthony Borzilleri as Joseph, delivering a heartfelt portrayal of strength and humility; and Julianna Huber as Mary, whose moving performance captures the courage, grace and wonder of a young woman chosen for an extraordinary role.

Supporting them are Sarah Comfort as the Angel Gabriel; Mike Ficorilli as King Herod; Steve Olszewski as the Rabbi; Eric Boron as the Innkeeper; Ellen Valvo as Mary’s cousin, Elizabeth; Lewiston native Eileen Lapp-Hastings as the Mother of Mary; David Conboy as the Assassin; as well as a dedicated ensemble that brings to life roman soldiers, shepherds and townspeople.

Show proceeds will support the ongoing transformation of this a performance and community space – a fitting connection, as this humble venue – still being lovingly renewed – echoes the simple and unexpected setting of the first Christmas.