Some bonds have existed since the beginning of time. A brotherhood between Joshua Hershberger and his friend from home closely resemble the story of “David A New Musical”.
Meet the Writer
Joshua Hershberger, a senior majoring in Music Ministry at Olivet Nazarene University, has been a part of eight musical productions at Olivet. While he has given his input in other productions, this was the first one he wrote. His future goal is to integrate theatre and writing into the role of a worship pastor in order to share the glory of God in new ways.
Writing Process
Beginning the writing process, Hershberger started out with the wisps of a song that with the help of others, became the musical “David A New Musical.” When it comes to creating something like a play or a musical it requires collaboration. Writing the music, Hershberger worked alongside SiSi Clark who helped write most of the lyrics. After one song came together, many more flowed afterward, creating the story of “David A New Musical.”
This was my first one so I needed all the help I could get
Joshua Hershberger
In the process of directing, Hershberger had to find a balance in regard to his role while his musical was being produced. He had to help in translating how he envisioned his songs in the musical but there are some battles not worth fighting. He had to decide what pieces were necessary to be produced in specific ways and what portions allowed for some artistic freedom.
Hershberger had to multitask as he helped guide the vision of the musical while also playing a critical role within “David A New Musical” itself. He worked alongside crew and performers alike to bring the musical to life
Inspiration
The vision behind it all started with a friend close to Hershberger’s heart: a personal story of friendship between two people who could not be together encouraged him to write a song. After a revival service at Olivet Nazarene University, Hershberger made a bee-line for a practice room to write this song in 3 hours.
Hershberger and his friend had once been compared to the friendship and brotherhood of Jonathan and David. This comparison led to the creation of Til I See You Again. Originally, Hershberger imagined his role to be Jonathan based on the origin story of the production, but he ended up playing the role of Samuel. Hershberger noted how although this role was different, he believes the musical served its purpose.
As Joshua Hershberger worked with his team, photos were captured of their collaboration and process. As they prayed together, laughed together, and performed together, they created the amazing production of “David A New Musical.”
Final Product
Hershberger was overall happy with the results of his hard work alongside many others. While this story originated from a place of hurt with the distance of his close friend, he is confident in how God was able to use the production. He was overjoyed to see God be glorified in not only the audience but the cast members working on the show as well.
