La Comedia Dinner Theatre in Springboro, Ohio is continuing its 50th season packed with shows which haven't been seen there previously. And it's especially surprising that they've never before staged their current offering, Children of Eden, since church groups frequently attend this theater. The talented cast is up to the often-challenging material in a bold and creative production.

Children of Eden is a retelling of two Old Testament stories: Adam and Eve and Noah's Ark. They're told from an adult perspective, generally following the Bible stories but with some additional plot lines. The musical is considered by some to be a prequel to Godspell due to the shared composer/lyricist and a few minor nods to the New Testament musical within Children of Eden. It likely holds the distinction of being the most often produced musical each year to have never had a major New York City production on or off Broadway.

The book by John Caird (Jane Eyre, Daddy Long Legs) is an interesting one, using these two well-known stories as the framework for addressing several universal themes: the challenges and joys of parenthood; the benefits and sacrifices of the pursuit of knowledge over faithful obedience; and the power of mercy. There are a few times when the storytelling isn't the most efficient, and the piece is about ten minutes too long in each act. However, it's overall an engaging and clearly told tale.

The score by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin) is a quality one, with soaring melodies, intelligent and probing lyrics, and some beautiful arrangements. The opening number, "Let There Be," and closing song, "In The Beginning," are both wonderfully layered musically and dramatically impactful. In Act 1, "The Spark of Creation," Eve's anthem conveying her desire to learn about the world, "Close To Home," "Lost in the Wilderness," and the emotionally moving title number are all superb songs. After intermission, "Stranger to the Rain" and "In Whatever Time We Have," one of Schwartz's best duets, are score highlights as well.

The La Comedia cast includes many gifted vocalists and actors. James Verderamo (Father) is appropriately regal, conveys the hopes and frustrations felt by any parent regarding their children, and is a first-rate singer. Tim Lawrence captures the innocence and obedient faithfulness of Adam with skill. Chanelle Beach displays many dimensions and nuance in her portrayal of the spunky and curious Eve, and tackles the role's difficult vocals well. Frankie Breit provides a tender and thoughtful take on the character of Noah. Georgia VanRy supplies color and texture in her remarkable singing as Yonah, the servant girl from the race of Cain who one of Noah's sons smuggles onboard the ark. Sy Thomas impresses with the rousing penultimate number featuring her soulful vocals as Mama Noah. Kolter Yagual-Rolston is suitably mischievous and sinisterly playful as the Snake. The cast, including the large ensemble, splendidly executes some enchanting choral singing within the show as well.

Director and choreographer Chris Beiser provides many inventive touches throughout, and manages the serious tone of the piece in a thoughtful and moving manner. Though there's a bit of a missed opportunity for some levity in the staging of the parade of animals coming onto the ark in Act 2, the overall presentation is strong and cohesive. Children of Eden doesn't really call for any traditional dancing, so Beiser's choreography is more in the line of stylized movement befitting the material. Music director Ryan Henrich has prepared his cast well vocally.

Gabe Davidson's sets are large and clearly convey the settings, and the lighting by Edward Huber distinguishes Eden from the "wasteland" to which Adam and Eve are expelled, and includes several flashy effects. The costumes by Emercita Erb and Mattison Williams are aptly muted. The sound design on opening night left some lyrics in the opening and closing numbers difficult to understand, but that will hopefully improve with a few more performances.

La Comedia Dinner Theatre deserves praise for mounting new shows for their audiences. Like several other offerings this year, Children of Eden is a bit more sophisticated and serious than many of the venue's typical fare, but audiences should welcome and embrace such choices. Given that two of their strongest productions over the past few decades have been Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Godspell, also based on Biblical stories, Children of Eden is a wise addition to their profile. Their production of this show with a strong pedigree, universal themes, and showcasing wonderful singing is noteworthy.

Children of Eden runs through June 15, 2025, at La Comedia Dinner Theater, 765 W. Central Ave, Springboro OH. For tickets and information, please call 937-746-4554 or visit lacomedia.com.