He just saved her life, imperiling his own in the process. She is so deeply transformed by his selfless act, she wants to follow him, but is afraid. So, she gets him to wait by asking where he's going. As she continues to ask and then is silently, inwardly answered, she shows him that she will dare herself out of her painful timidity to go with him. It's important to do this choreography because she has to SHOW him! As she does, she gains courage, and at the end, is ready! Sing your heart out!
When I was in "Godspell" back in '92, I got to sing this song. Opening night, when I finished singing it, there was dead silence...and I panicked, thinking to myself that the audience hadn't enjoyed it. When I asked someone about it later, they said, "Are you kidding? They were completely spellbound...it wasn't an awkward silence, it was a reverent hush!" What an amazing song.
Peggy, I am Joe Beruh's niece and wanted to post this song in honor of a friend that passed away. Please know that seeing Godspell changed my life...I hope you are so proud of this. Hugs to you.. Robin
You're exactly right. John Michael wanted an audience to experience this from the completely uncomplicated, innocent prism of a pre-adolescent child. Thus his choice of the Godspell universe being a child's fenced playground populated by children's iconic characters who would play a version of Sesame Street through the story telling parables as a way of both learning their lessons and learning about their teacher.
Back in 8th grade (1981), I sang and played "By My Side" in a school production. It was the last song my Dad saw me perform. Somehow, it's the most appropriate song for the situation. He was living his final months with a brain tumor. Since then, just before I put my guitar away, I sing and play this song. It never fails: I see him sitting in the gym, watching. Thank you for giving me a way to put my feelings into words and my hope into song as a teen - and as an adult.
Peggy Gordon Oh, my! I was thrilled to be able to contact you directly and I receive a reply! Thank you for your gracious words. Now when I play and sing the song, I'll think of Dad AND you.
I am here to honour Jay Hamburger who has passed away this last Monday March 25, 2024. My love for you Jay is strong. You are a pure soul and a man of compassion and curiosity.
I did! John Michael Tebelak is the sole creative mind behind Godspell. He explained to us that the purpose of the show is to invite an audience to revisit the innocence of childhood. That's why he placed us in a child's playground and populated it with children's iconic characters: clowns and comic book superheros. Anything other than this isn't Godspell according to what John Michael painstakingly explained to us before we began the intense creative workshops that brought his idea to fruition.
I have seen many productions, and I have walked away from productions missing something...not feeling moved...thinking maybe it was the actors, and not understanding what it was....until I would realize the director strayed from the original concept to put their "own spin" on it....which is foolish bc the original concept was completely brilliant, and is the reason WHY Godspell is so magical. These clips are GOLD and I'm so happy I found them! Thank you for posting!
If a new interpretation is to be done, it would honor what the creator’s wanted: the innocence and community of love. I have autism and this musical makes me feel wonderful and I would love to do it someday. Peggy you are so talented
Ms Gordon, I never thought I'd have a chance to share this... For reasons I don't need to go into I was unable to cry from the age of about 11 on. My freshman year at NorthwesternU I attended a performance of Godspell. It was a good performance but I have no explanation for what happened. At the moment By My Side began, eight years worth of tears began to well, and I wept long and deeply. My life was changed at that moment (and for the better). Thank you.
It was John Michael's desire to imply the resurrection rather than show it because he wanted to place the entire emphasis on Jesus's life - not his after life - and how his life's choices inspired a movement.
I just got done playing Peggy with the Greater Cleburne Carnegie Players. It was the best show I have ever been part of and I am so blessed to have had the opportunity to sing this gorgeous song. I was moved listening to video. Thank you, Peggy, for sharing an amazing song.
By My Side is my favorite song of all time, ever since I saw it on Broadway in the 70's as a young teenager. It still evokes the same feelings of Love yet Grief and Longing all at the same time. Blessings to you for writing this beautiful love song.
I have never seen this clip before. What I liked about Godspell was that it was a simple stage. No elaborate scenery or loud production just great songs and story telling.
It is terrific to see the original Godpsell cast on youtube. This show and its music and message has brought great joy to my life. It is refreshing to see the show as it originally looked with its PAR lights, sawhorses, chain link fence and planks.
@mollificent You'll be relieved to know that when we structured the song into the show, the way John-Michael set it, it flows directly into the next moment at the Last Supper; so, the audience is never cued to applaud the way they are with other songs in the show. I have to admit, I missed having that "button," at the end of the song but I made up for it by creating a real signature ending to the seed parable which gave me thunderous applause!
Wow, the original Peggy is HERE on RUclips! What a beautiful video! I'm playing Peggy right now myself and it's great because I can relate to the character a whole lot...since I'm rather shy and anxious myself, I feel like she's ME and these are the words I would say to Jesus. I'm really feeling the power of this show, my cast has become like a big family. Peggy Gordon, if you have any words of wisdom for me, I'd appreciate them so much!
Oh W0W... I was a little 8 year old red-haired girl in the audience and Stephen walked up to my seat!! love it!! love it!!! Thank-you for giving me the love of Musicals
Hands down one of the best songs/moments in Godspell. It's haunting, beautiful, heartwrenching. Thanks Peggy so much for posting all of these videos of the original cast of Godspell!
Actually, this is from our 10th anniversary reunion production organized by Columbia pictures. It's the majority of the original cast with four amazing actors who'd done the show in different cities around the country filling in for Robin Lamont, Sonia Manzano, Lamar Alford and Joanne Jonas; so, this was in December of 1981.
@larkluster It looks to be just the right amount of "intimate". NYC? Thanks for these wonderful vids... 14 years ago! I just discovered them a few days ago thanks to the "Miracle" of modern technology. They bring an extra dimension and life to the sound of my original soundtrack album from so long ago!
@rcktmanil I love when people put their love of what Katie did in "print," so I can show it to her. She's such an amazing Broadway belter and felt By My Side was out of character for her singing style. So, I love to show her all the compliments she gets!
John Michael wanted us to always play the innocence of clowns -- never the cynical knowingness of stand up comics. So, just pretend you're about five years old and you'll be honoring what Godspell is supposed to be -- the journey of discovery experienced through the prism of an unbiased, innocent child.
I was in a small road company of Godspell in 1981 at age 19. To say it was a life-changing event is a mass understatement. These postings brought me back. Words fail me as to how much they mean to me. Thank you.
So thankyou , blessings to all the casts .Great to see this 10th anniversary version of 1981; its a paeon to the human voice , committment ,vulnerablity to dare and our interdependence. I shall like this at my own funeral, alongside a couple of other soul songs. I saw the show in Auckland NZ at His Majestys Theatre (since torn down) about 1978 and it has never left me.
My introduction to "Godspell" came from an audio cassette my uncle had recorded of the songs from the movie by putting a tape recorder in front of the TV. I played it many times as a child and I loved this song the most. I subsequently bought the soundtrack, first on vinyl and later on CD and I have seen a stage production. After fifty years, "By My Side" remains one of my all-time favourite songs. I had assumed Stephen Schwartz had written it, but I found out that it was you and Jay. I wanted to say thank you so much for bringing such a beautiful song into the world. ♥
I don't even know what to say! You made my day completely with this comment. I am so ready to play this character now!!! I'll put a pebble in my shoe, and watch me walk! Thank you, Peggy!!!!!!
This came up on my play list, the 2012 version, ironically this past Friday (Good Friday) Long have I adored Stephen Schwartz Wicked... but not familiar with Godspell. A few years ago I saw someone perform a Vaudeville “Turn Back O Man” ... and I had never heard anything like it. Fast forward a few years .. the song pops back into my head .. and before I know it I have downloaded both Godspell soundtracks to my iTunes. I wish I could put into the words the feelings my belated intro to Godspell has evoked. I have watched the movie several times and can’t seem to get enough of the freely shared message of hope and love.
I'm so happy to have found these clips! I watched this show during many rehearsals and performances as a child (my Mom was in the crew) and grew up with Gilmer, Jeanne and David as extended family.
My high school did Godspell in 2003 when I was 14. I got the part of Peggy (and was the only freshman to ever be given a part in one of our high school's musicals ;)). I didn't realize then how monumental this song truly is. You have a very lovely voice. I wish I had a recording of our performance.
Oh my goodness, it's YOU! I LOVE YOU, :-) I grew up listening to the album over and over, and especially this song because I loved your voice so much. (And still do!)
@GodspellFreak No, I got a wicked case of Tonsilitis that took out of the show AND the movie. Katie had been a great Robin clown replacement in New York when the majority of the original cast went to LA for a few months to open the show. The director of the film liked her and put in her my role (although most of what I did in the show was divided between katie and gilmer). Katie is one of my very best friends and I love how simply she sang By My Side in the movie!
Ms Peggy Gordon, I am ashamed to admit that I am a 50 year old movie buff who only recently came across "Godspell" the movie for the first time (somehow it just alluded me all these years) and since then have searched out and discovered a lot about the original cast and stage show. I just wanted to tell you that I believe "By My Side" to be a song of inordinate power and emotion. I found it to be the best scene in the movie. It's an exhilarating song and it was great pleasure to see you perform it in this video. I have seen this video and the scene in the movie many times since and it never fails to move me. Thank you for this gift to all of us. Also, the next time you talk to Katie Hanley, please let her know she has a huge fan in Northwest Indiana and thank her for me for her amazing rendition of the song and her performance overall. My very best to both of you extraordinarily talented women. John Sanchez
jrschez1965 Hey John, I just copied and e-mailed Katie exactly what you wrote. She's so touched. Even more so since she filled in for me in the movie... I thought... beautifully.
Peggy Gordon Thanks so much Peggy. Yes, Katie did the role beautifully but I am certain you would have as well had you been able to. It's wonderful in this day and age to be able to reach out to people in the Arts who have touched your life and make them aware of it. You and Katie have certainly done that for me and I cannot express my gratitude enough to you for that and for passing on my words to Katie. I am thrilled to no end. John
thank you so much for sharing this clip from the stage musical Peggy. I got to meet most of the original cast when they came to DC for a short time. I still love this musical to this day.
This video is so lovely, Peggy! Thank you for sharing! I've been a huge Godspell fan since before I could even read. I wouldn't be who I am without it. Getting to see neat videos like this is so cool I can't even explain! This is by far one of my favorite songs in the whole show. I've never been in it, but I recently helped design a poster for an off-Broadway production in NY. Super excited for them!
anonymous. i saw the play at the "circle in the square" omg i held back soooo many tears. it was so beautiful! if it wasnt for this play and the movie( way back when) , i dont think that i would be soooo happy , living my life, as i am today! the new broadway show was incredible! i wish it would come back again. one thing i dont understnd though, is why ,with such a beautiful cast and newly polished songs, why the couldnt film the show, and sell the dvd. i would have bought 20 of them
This is my absolute favorite show! I was lucky enough to perform in it at college. I dont know if i'll be lucky to get more parts in my lifetime, but just the fact I had the honor performing in a show that had such an effect on me, I can be happy with that.
Thank you for posting these scenes from the 10 yr reunion show. I was in the audience! Actually must have gone to the show at least 10 times. Great memories. So glad to find it on RUclips!
Ms. Gordon, your voice and song never fail to give me goosebumps. When I was 12, I taught myself how to play "By My Side" on the guitar from listening to the original cast album. Nineteen years later, in 1991, I was the guitarist in the pit band for a 20th anniversary production of "Godspell" in Hopewell, NJ. (Attended by Stu Duncan, one of your producers. Still going strong!) I was involved in many musicals over the years, but none gave me as much pleasure as that one. Thank you for posting so many rare and cherished clips. I'm on my third reading of Carol de Giere's great book "The Godspell Experience" and after a few chapters, I like to watch the clips you've posted as a sort of "enhancement" to the reading. Wishing you peace and love.
Peggy, I am a Christian Minister, and despite my many years of following the lord, I don't know why I had not seen this show until recently, and it has been a great blessing to me. It seems the essence of it is becoming as little children to get close to him, and seeing these things through a child's eyes. This song almost always brings tears to my eyes, because it really spells out the heart of a new believer wanting to follow her savior, and brings me back to when I was first saved. (Con't)
@om92555 Yes, it was John-Michael Tebelak's vision that the show be in an abandoned, urban child's playground... no swings, sandbox, jungle jim, nothing... only three planks, two saw horses and huge garbage bags that would hold our props... and in this empty, blighted world he placed ten innocent clowns!
i'm currently in a production of godspell, and today in rehearsal we sang by my side for the first time. it was like stepping into a cold shower. thank you for sharing this with us
And, maybe it is good to imply it, for, it is not just faith in His death, but also His resurrection that brings salvation, and, it sends the message: do you believe by dogma and ritual, or, do you believe in childlike faith? That's up to the viewer to decide, the way it should be. Once again, thank you for the blessing this song and show was. May it live on forever.
@Basssinger86 Thanks! It's fortunate that after our initial run at La Mama (where we created the show), and a year and a half at both The Cherry Lane Theatre and then the Promenade on Broadway, I managed to do the best performance of my song EVER for this shoot 10 years later with the majority of my original cast! Maybe that's why. This is the only living film of me, Gilmer McCormick, Jeffrey Mylett and Steve Nathan doing the song as we originally created it!
this is my all time favorite song from the show. you guys sure set high standards for future generations to follow when doing this song. the harmonies make me tear up every time.
Just saw your e-mail and sent one back to you! Make sure to read Steve Schwartz's very specific notes in the stage directions for The Seed Parable where he states that the actress playing the role I did must follow my character arc throughout the parable. In addition to the reasons I explained in my e-mail, it's imperative that the audience see us changing throughout each parable (as opposed to using the parables merely as a vehicle for stand up comedy, which John Michael Tebelak did not want).
I really needed this. We lost my mother very recently on May 28th & we were all there at the end. She was 76, which in 2017 feels like the new 65. I'm one of 8 kids so it's been crazy, but mostly sad. It hits me harder at certain times & for some reason, this song was in my head when I woke up and just had to play it. guess I needed to shed more tears. I'm usually a rocker but always loved this haunting melody. thanks for this masterpiece,
This show made me want to be an actor, and everytime I hear this song I get goosebumps. If I can half the effect on someone that this show had on me, then my life will have been worthwhile.
@TheGodspellLover Robin and Lamar were in New York and couldn't do this shoot, which was in LA. But, Robin has seen it! We lost our precious Lamar 20 years ago and miss him everyday!
Thanks for confirming that! People need to shed dogma and ritual, because Jesus Himself said that doesn't get someone close to God. He didn't want religion, but relationships in a reality, one-on-one. We gather in my church just to celebrate Him and gain strength from each other. I don't do things to earn what can't be earned, but I do so because He just gave me grace like He gave the woman caught in adultery, and, like the song, like her, I want to be by His side because I am grateful to Him.
thank you so much for posting. this helps us makers of future musical theatre appreciate the beauty of the theatre that came before us. not to mention, your voice is gorgeous!!
I was in a program from Florida State University in London in 1973, saw the original stage play. I still have my old cassette tape (refuse to give it up) and I hum this song especially, and all the songs, over and over again. It's hauntingly beautiful as your performance.
Peggy Gordon thx so much Peggy- so beautiful. 1st saw this show at John Carroll Univ. in the 70's. recently took my family to a wonderful version at Cain Park In Cleveland hts.- totally re-affirmed bringing God Back into our lives. I really think this play brought the Bible into Modern times- let's spread the Word- God is still relevant in our daily lives
David Belitz John Michael's entire intent was to strip away all forms of dogma and ritual and just dive into the parables with a childlike Jesus as a child's superhero clown and learn what was of value to learn. Plain and simple. We would invite to audience to leave their cynicism at the door and become receptive children again. It worked and, when done well, continues to.
Wow, you so inherently understand my "girl," that whatever I'd add would be superfluous! Just remember that he saved your life, imperiling his own in the process by going against the law of Moses. You are so transformed by his selfless act that you CHOOSE to challenge and overcome your fearfulness to follow him. Simple as that!
Oh my gosh is this really Peggy Gordon? Let me say, I am a huge fan of Stephen Schwartz but I personally think this is the best song in Godspell. I played Judas/John the Baptist when I was 16 and it changed my life. I am now 23 and I am about to graduate Western Oregon University with a Performing arts degree with a music emphasis. I am doing a one-man show about my life thus far and I sing this song when talking about my close friendship with a girl who endured a horrific rape and it changed both our lives yet made us stronger friends and people.
sweeney60 That's so sweet. Thank you! I hope to be able to upload more clips as time goes by. Steve was actually very generous. He told me he tried to write a song to replace mine (he came into our project after the show was largely formed already) but didn't think he could write something as good. So, it's the only song from the show that survived our first two workshops that didn't include Steve's music. A little Godspell history...
Thank you for sharing this, I'm part of a group performing the show in Ireland this month and the video has really helped with my performance of this song. It's a truly beautiful song and I hope I can do it justice.
Just so you know, the show was a huge success and we raised 2,000 dollars for charity, more than our wildest dreams! The show itself was absolutely fantastic, better than we had any right to expect. We will have videos posted soon.
He just saved her life, imperiling his own in the process. She is so deeply transformed by his selfless act, she wants to follow him, but is afraid. So, she gets him to wait by asking where he's going. As she continues to ask and then is silently, inwardly answered, she shows him that she will dare herself out of her painful timidity to go with him. It's important to do this choreography because she has to SHOW him! As she does, she gains courage, and at the end, is ready! Sing your heart out!
When I was in "Godspell" back in '92, I got to sing this song. Opening night, when I finished singing it, there was dead silence...and I panicked, thinking to myself that the audience hadn't enjoyed it. When I asked someone about it later, they said, "Are you kidding? They were completely spellbound...it wasn't an awkward silence, it was a reverent hush!" What an amazing song.
Beautiful.
Peggy, I am Joe Beruh's niece and wanted to post this song in honor of a friend that passed away. Please know that seeing Godspell changed my life...I hope you are so proud of this. Hugs to you.. Robin
Robin, we LOVED your Uncle. If not for him, there would have been no life beyond La Mama. By My Side always made him cry. Hugs back to you.
You're exactly right. John Michael wanted an audience to experience this from the completely uncomplicated, innocent prism of a pre-adolescent child. Thus his choice of the Godspell universe being a child's fenced playground populated by children's iconic characters who would play a version of Sesame Street through the story telling parables as a way of both learning their lessons and learning about their teacher.
Back in 8th grade (1981), I sang and played "By My Side" in a school production. It was the last song my Dad saw me perform. Somehow, it's the most appropriate song for the situation. He was living his final months with a brain tumor.
Since then, just before I put my guitar away, I sing and play this song. It never fails: I see him sitting in the gym, watching.
Thank you for giving me a way to put my feelings into words and my hope into song as a teen - and as an adult.
DeAnne Rickabaugh There isn't a single award I've won for this show that equals what you just shared with me DeAnne. Thank you. Peggy Gordon
Peggy Gordon Oh, my!
I was thrilled to be able to contact you directly and I receive a reply!
Thank you for your gracious words. Now when I play and sing the song, I'll think of Dad AND you.
Music is so haunting, healing. What a wonderful memory.
My mom played your character in a production of Godspell when she was in high school and sang this song
I am here to honour Jay Hamburger who has passed away this last Monday March 25, 2024. My love for you Jay is strong. You are a pure soul and a man of compassion and curiosity.
What an amazing song and performance! Worth every tribute
I did! John Michael Tebelak is the sole creative mind behind Godspell. He explained to us that the purpose of the show is to invite an audience to revisit the innocence of childhood. That's why he placed us in a child's playground and populated it with children's iconic characters: clowns and comic book superheros. Anything other than this isn't Godspell according to what John Michael painstakingly explained to us before we began the intense creative workshops that brought his idea to fruition.
I have seen many productions, and I have walked away from productions missing something...not feeling moved...thinking maybe it was the actors, and not understanding what it was....until I would realize the director strayed from the original concept to put their "own spin" on it....which is foolish bc the original concept was completely brilliant, and is the reason WHY Godspell is so magical.
These clips are GOLD and I'm so happy I found them! Thank you for posting!
If a new interpretation is to be done, it would honor what the creator’s wanted: the innocence and community of love. I have autism and this musical makes me feel wonderful and I would love to do it someday. Peggy you are so talented
Ms Gordon, I never thought I'd have a chance to share this... For reasons I don't need to go into I was unable to cry from the age of about 11 on. My freshman year at NorthwesternU I attended a performance of Godspell. It was a good performance but I have no explanation for what happened. At the moment By My Side began, eight years worth of tears began to well, and I wept long and deeply. My life was changed at that moment (and for the better). Thank you.
Sometimes the sweetly wistful face of Jeffrey Mylett still crosses my mind, and I think of the music. R.I.P.
Thank you for the music, Peggy Gordon.
This is the play that made me want to be an actor. You cant imagine my utter joy when I got to perform it last year :)
Thank you Peggy Gordon!
It's been two years and I still miss performing in our schools production of Godspell.
Glad to know there are new generations singing this song!
Still the best version.
It was John Michael's desire to imply the resurrection rather than show it because he wanted to place the entire emphasis on Jesus's life - not his after life - and how his life's choices inspired a movement.
I just got done playing Peggy with the Greater Cleburne Carnegie Players. It was the best show I have ever been part of and I am so blessed to have had the opportunity to sing this gorgeous song. I was moved listening to video. Thank you, Peggy, for sharing an amazing song.
This is one of my favorite songs of all time. The harmonies are very moving. It often results in goosebumps.
By My Side is my favorite song of all time, ever since I saw it on Broadway in the 70's as a young teenager. It still evokes the same feelings of Love yet Grief and Longing all at the same time. Blessings to you for writing this beautiful love song.
I have never seen this clip before. What I liked about Godspell was that it was a simple stage. No elaborate scenery or loud production just great songs and story telling.
Oh Peggy....the voice of an angel
We did it my sophomore year in 1982.. I played David's role. It was a special bonding experience for the group.
It is terrific to see the original Godpsell cast on youtube. This show and its music and message has brought great joy to my life. It is refreshing to see the show as it originally looked with its PAR lights, sawhorses, chain link fence and planks.
@mollificent You'll be relieved to know that when we structured the song into the show, the way John-Michael set it, it flows directly into the next moment at the Last Supper; so, the audience is never cued to applaud the way they are with other songs in the show. I have to admit, I missed having that "button," at the end of the song but I made up for it by creating a real signature ending to the seed parable which gave me thunderous applause!
This is my favorite song in the show. The harmonies make me teary eyed every time
I've always (since the mid 1970s) liked this song and want to thank you for writing it.
Exact reason why I love Godspell... why I see the song clips... I just feel happy inside.
Wow, the original Peggy is HERE on RUclips! What a beautiful video! I'm playing Peggy right now myself and it's great because I can relate to the character a whole lot...since I'm rather shy and anxious myself, I feel like she's ME and these are the words I would say to Jesus. I'm really feeling the power of this show, my cast has become like a big family. Peggy Gordon, if you have any words of wisdom for me, I'd appreciate them so much!
Wow...total goosebumps moment! This has always been my favorite song from Godspell. So nice to see Jeffrey playing guitar on this. He
Oh W0W... I was a little 8 year old red-haired girl in the audience and Stephen walked up to my seat!! love it!! love it!!! Thank-you for giving me the love of Musicals
Hands down one of the best songs/moments in Godspell. It's haunting, beautiful, heartwrenching. Thanks Peggy so much for posting all of these videos of the original cast of Godspell!
my school's performances of Godspell start next week! I hope we can live up to great moments like this one
Actually, this is from our 10th anniversary reunion production organized by Columbia pictures. It's the majority of the original cast with four amazing actors who'd done the show in different cities around the country filling in for Robin Lamont, Sonia Manzano, Lamar Alford and Joanne Jonas; so, this was in December of 1981.
What theater?
@@geeks4greyson425 We performed in a Church chosen by Sony. It was almost exactly the same size as the Cherry Lane Theater... just a bit bigger.
@larkluster
It looks to be just the right amount of "intimate".
NYC?
Thanks for these wonderful vids...
14 years ago! I just discovered them a few days ago thanks to the "Miracle" of modern technology.
They bring an extra dimension and life to the sound of my original soundtrack album from so long ago!
All I can hear is Jeff on backing vocals from 3:25 till the end 😭
What a beautiful gift he had. You all were so lucky to have known him.
@rcktmanil I love when people put their love of what Katie did in "print," so I can show it to her. She's such an amazing Broadway belter and felt By My Side was out of character for her singing style. So, I love to show her all the compliments she gets!
John Michael wanted us to always play the innocence of clowns -- never the cynical knowingness of stand up comics. So, just pretend you're about five years old and you'll be honoring what Godspell is supposed to be -- the journey of discovery experienced through the prism of an unbiased, innocent child.
I was in a small road company of Godspell in 1981 at age 19. To say it was a life-changing event is a mass understatement. These postings brought me back. Words fail me as to how much they mean to me. Thank you.
Peggy Gordon such a beautiful voice:)
This show changed my life.
Thank you and Jay Hamburger for this truly blessed song!
So thankyou , blessings to all the casts .Great to see this 10th anniversary version of 1981; its a paeon to the human voice , committment ,vulnerablity to dare and our interdependence. I shall like this at my own funeral, alongside a couple of other soul songs. I saw the show in Auckland NZ at His Majestys Theatre (since torn down) about 1978 and it has never left me.
My daughter Lexi sang this song this past weekend.... Love it! Such a beautiful song and she brought me and others to tears!
oh man. this was so beautiful but the "meet your new road" gave me chills!
My introduction to "Godspell" came from an audio cassette my uncle had recorded of the songs from the movie by putting a tape recorder in front of the TV. I played it many times as a child and I loved this song the most. I subsequently bought the soundtrack, first on vinyl and later on CD and I have seen a stage production. After fifty years, "By My Side" remains one of my all-time favourite songs. I had assumed Stephen Schwartz had written it, but I found out that it was you and Jay. I wanted to say thank you so much for bringing such a beautiful song into the world. ♥
Beautiful, clear, accessible, touching, perfect,. Thank you.
I think I can only hope I put that much emotion into my performance of this song...
Goosebumps. Thank you.
I don't even know what to say! You made my day completely with this comment. I am so ready to play this character now!!! I'll put a pebble in my shoe, and watch me walk!
Thank you, Peggy!!!!!!
This came up on my play list, the 2012 version, ironically this past Friday (Good Friday)
Long have I adored Stephen Schwartz Wicked... but not familiar with Godspell.
A few years ago I saw someone perform a Vaudeville “Turn Back O Man” ... and I had never heard anything like it.
Fast forward a few years .. the song pops back into my head .. and before I know it I have downloaded both Godspell soundtracks to my iTunes. I wish I could put into the words the feelings my belated intro to Godspell has evoked. I have watched the movie several times and can’t seem to get enough of the freely shared message of hope and love.
Well I'm in tears. So beautiful. You had me at "no one..."
I'm so happy to have found these clips! I watched this show during many rehearsals and performances as a child (my Mom was in the crew) and grew up with Gilmer, Jeanne and David as extended family.
My high school did Godspell in 2003 when I was 14. I got the part of Peggy (and was the only freshman to ever be given a part in one of our high school's musicals ;)). I didn't realize then how monumental this song truly is. You have a very lovely voice. I wish I had a recording of our performance.
Oh my goodness, it's YOU! I LOVE YOU, :-) I grew up listening to the album over and over, and especially this song because I loved your voice so much. (And still do!)
@GodspellFreak No, I got a wicked case of Tonsilitis that took out of the show AND the movie. Katie had been a great Robin clown replacement in New York when the majority of the original cast went to LA for a few months to open the show. The director of the film liked her and put in her my role (although most of what I did in the show was divided between katie and gilmer). Katie is one of my very best friends and I love how simply she sang By My Side in the movie!
How beautiful. What a voice!
Ms Peggy Gordon, I am ashamed to admit that I am a 50 year old movie buff who only recently came across "Godspell" the movie for the first time (somehow it just alluded me all these years) and since then have searched out and discovered a lot about the original cast and stage show. I just wanted to tell you that I believe "By My Side" to be a song of inordinate power and emotion. I found it to be the best scene in the movie. It's an exhilarating song and it was great pleasure to see you perform it in this video. I have seen this video and the scene in the movie many times since and it never fails to move me. Thank you for this gift to all of us. Also, the next time you talk to Katie Hanley, please let her know she has a huge fan in Northwest Indiana and thank her for me for her amazing rendition of the song and her performance overall. My very best to both of you extraordinarily talented women. John Sanchez
jrschez1965 Hey John, I just copied and e-mailed Katie exactly what you wrote. She's so touched. Even more so since she filled in for me in the movie... I thought... beautifully.
Peggy Gordon Thanks so much Peggy. Yes, Katie did the role beautifully but I am certain you would have as well had you been able to. It's wonderful in this day and age to be able to reach out to people in the Arts who have touched your life and make them aware of it. You and Katie have certainly done that for me and I cannot express my gratitude enough to you for that and for passing on my words to Katie. I am thrilled to no end. John
Has to be one of my favorites. You have a wonderful voice Peggy!
thank you so much for sharing this clip from the stage musical Peggy. I got to meet most of the original cast when they came to DC for a short time. I still love this musical to this day.
Finally I found actual footage of the original cast!
This video is so lovely, Peggy! Thank you for sharing! I've been a huge Godspell fan since before I could even read. I wouldn't be who I am without it. Getting to see neat videos like this is so cool I can't even explain! This is by far one of my favorite songs in the whole show. I've never been in it, but I recently helped design a poster for an off-Broadway production in NY. Super excited for them!
anonymous. i saw the play at the "circle in the square" omg i held back soooo many tears. it was so beautiful! if it wasnt for this play and the movie( way back when) , i dont think that i would be soooo happy , living my life, as i am today! the new broadway show was incredible! i wish it would come back again. one thing i dont understnd though, is why ,with such a beautiful cast and newly polished songs, why the couldnt film the show, and sell the dvd. i would have bought 20 of them
This is my absolute favorite show! I was lucky enough to perform in it at college. I dont know if i'll be lucky to get more parts in my lifetime, but just the fact I had the honor performing in a show that had such an effect on me, I can be happy with that.
Awesome! Thanks for sharing.
I'm doing this song for my school's production of Godspell, I absolutely love it!
Thank you for posting these scenes from the 10 yr reunion show. I was in the audience! Actually must have gone to the show at least 10 times. Great memories. So glad to find it on RUclips!
Beautiful!
WOW, THAT WAS SOME For REAL Singing. AWESOME PERFORMANCE.
Ms. Gordon, your voice and song never fail to give me goosebumps. When I was 12, I taught myself how to play "By My Side" on the guitar from listening to the original cast album. Nineteen years later, in 1991, I was the guitarist in the pit band for a 20th anniversary production of "Godspell" in Hopewell, NJ. (Attended by Stu Duncan, one of your producers. Still going strong!) I was involved in many musicals over the years, but none gave me as much pleasure as that one. Thank you for posting so many rare and cherished clips. I'm on my third reading of Carol de Giere's great book "The Godspell Experience" and after a few chapters, I like to watch the clips you've posted as a sort of "enhancement" to the reading. Wishing you peace and love.
Peggy, I am a Christian Minister, and despite my many years of following the lord, I don't know why I had not seen this show until recently, and it has been a great blessing to me. It seems the essence of it is becoming as little children to get close to him, and seeing these things through a child's eyes. This song almost always brings tears to my eyes, because it really spells out the heart of a new believer wanting to follow her savior, and brings me back to when I was first saved. (Con't)
Probably the best version I have ever heard. I take that back...that IS the best verison I have ever heard. :) Amazing!!!
@om92555 Yes, it was John-Michael Tebelak's vision that the show be in an abandoned, urban child's playground... no swings, sandbox, jungle jim, nothing... only three planks, two saw horses and huge garbage bags that would hold our props... and in this empty, blighted world he placed ten innocent clowns!
i'm currently in a production of godspell, and today in rehearsal we sang by my side for the first time. it was like stepping into a cold shower. thank you for sharing this with us
I will tell him that. He'll love it!
And, maybe it is good to imply it, for, it is not just faith in His death, but also His resurrection that brings salvation, and, it sends the message: do you believe by dogma and ritual, or, do you believe in childlike faith? That's up to the viewer to decide, the way it should be. Once again, thank you for the blessing this song and show was. May it live on forever.
@Basssinger86 Thanks! It's fortunate that after our initial run at La Mama (where we created the show), and a year and a half at both The Cherry Lane Theatre and then the Promenade on Broadway, I managed to do the best performance of my song EVER for this shoot 10 years later with the majority of my original cast! Maybe that's why. This is the only living film of me, Gilmer McCormick, Jeffrey Mylett and Steve Nathan doing the song as we originally created it!
This is stunningly beautiful
this is my all time favorite song from the show. you guys sure set high standards for future generations to follow when doing this song. the harmonies make me tear up every time.
I've listened to the album for years Peggy, wonderful to see what it looked like on stage! Thanks for uploading these.
Just saw your e-mail and sent one back to you! Make sure to read Steve Schwartz's very specific notes in the stage directions for The Seed Parable where he states that the actress playing the role I did must follow my character arc throughout the parable. In addition to the reasons I explained in my e-mail, it's imperative that the audience see us changing throughout each parable (as opposed to using the parables merely as a vehicle for stand up comedy, which John Michael Tebelak did not want).
I really needed this. We lost my mother very recently on May 28th & we were all there at the end. She was 76, which in 2017 feels like the new 65. I'm one of 8 kids so it's been crazy, but mostly sad. It hits me harder at certain times & for some reason, this song was in my head when I woke up and just had to play it. guess I needed to shed more tears. I'm usually a rocker but always loved this haunting melody. thanks for this masterpiece,
So glad it could give you the comfort you needed.
thank you and it does bring some comfort honored to have received a reply from Peggy Gordon
This show made me want to be an actor, and everytime I hear this song I get goosebumps. If I can half the effect on someone that this show had on me, then my life will have been worthwhile.
I loved the energy that the songs had....
@TheGodspellLover Robin and Lamar were in New York and couldn't do this shoot, which was in LA. But, Robin has seen it! We lost our precious Lamar 20 years ago and miss him everyday!
BEAUTIFUL as always.
Thank you so much! I hope to be able to upload more selections from our production soon!
Thanks for confirming that! People need to shed dogma and ritual, because Jesus Himself said that doesn't get someone close to God. He didn't want religion, but relationships in a reality, one-on-one. We gather in my church just to celebrate Him and gain strength from each other. I don't do things to earn what can't be earned, but I do so because He just gave me grace like He gave the woman caught in adultery, and, like the song, like her, I want to be by His side because I am grateful to Him.
That was sublime. What an amazing, beautiful voice.
I hope this song stays the same in the broadway revival.
I'd love to sing it, but well, like THAT would happen.
This is my favorite Godspell song.
You're welcome, Thank You for Your Talent.
thank you so much for posting. this helps us makers of future musical theatre appreciate the beauty of the theatre that came before us. not to mention, your voice is gorgeous!!
...looks pretty good sporting that beard :)). Thank you for posting this Peggy!
I was in a program from Florida State University in London in 1973, saw the original stage play. I still have my old cassette tape (refuse to give it up) and I hum this song especially, and all the songs, over and over again. It's hauntingly beautiful as your performance.
Diana Oeding Thank you so much! Keep singing!
Peggy Gordon thx so much Peggy- so beautiful. 1st saw this show at John Carroll Univ. in the 70's. recently took my family to a wonderful version at Cain Park In Cleveland hts.- totally re-affirmed bringing God Back into our lives. I really think this play brought the Bible into Modern times- let's spread the Word- God is still relevant in our daily lives
David Belitz John Michael's entire intent was to strip away all forms of dogma and ritual and just dive into the parables with a childlike Jesus as a child's superhero clown and learn what was of value to learn. Plain and simple. We would invite to audience to leave their cynicism at the door and become receptive children again. It worked and, when done well, continues to.
Love this ❤
Wonderful!
I’m singing this in our local production of Godspell. :)
Wow, you so inherently understand my "girl," that whatever I'd add would be superfluous! Just remember that he saved your life, imperiling his own in the process by going against the law of Moses. You are so transformed by his selfless act that you CHOOSE to challenge and overcome your fearfulness to follow him. Simple as that!
Oh, I wish I could’ve seen the original Broadway cast when it first came out.
AWESOME. I wish I could hear it. GREAT Job, though I'm sure.
Thank you!
Oh my gosh is this really Peggy Gordon? Let me say, I am a huge fan of Stephen Schwartz but I personally think this is the best song in Godspell. I played Judas/John the Baptist when I was 16 and it changed my life. I am now 23 and I am about to graduate Western Oregon University with a Performing arts degree with a music emphasis. I am doing a one-man show about my life thus far and I sing this song when talking about my close friendship with a girl who endured a horrific rape and it changed both our lives yet made us stronger friends and people.
sweeney60 That's so sweet. Thank you! I hope to be able to upload more clips as time goes by. Steve was actually very generous. He told me he tried to write a song to replace mine (he came into our project after the show was largely formed already) but didn't think he could write something as good. So, it's the only song from the show that survived our first two workshops that didn't include Steve's music. A little Godspell history...
Thank you for sharing this, I'm part of a group performing the show in Ireland this month and the video has really helped with my performance of this song. It's a truly beautiful song and I hope I can do it justice.
:D I am proud to state: This was my very 1st album!!!
ok now I saw 1978, still!!
Just so you know, the show was a huge success and we raised 2,000 dollars for charity, more than our wildest dreams! The show itself was absolutely fantastic, better than we had any right to expect. We will have videos posted soon.