Psalm 100 encourages us to "make a joyful noise unto the Lord." That's just what performers from Susquehanna Stage will do when they present "Broadway Goes to Church: Songs of Inspiration From the Great White Way." The concert of compassion will be held at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 209 S. Market St., Mount Joy, at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 10.

As Jim Johnson, founding artistic director of Susquehanna Stage, explained, the concert is a yearly collaboration between the theater and the church.

"St. Luke's presents an annual concert of compassion, and this is our fourth gathering presenting Broadway music," he said. "Vocalists from Susquehanna Stage will present solos, duets and group numbers from the American musical theater songbook." Participants from Susquehanna Stage will include Johnson, Sharon Boyer, Michael Kohler, Tara Beitzel, Jon Knauss and Beth and Kent Gable.

Johnson noted that the concert came about as a collaborative effort of the performers. Many years ago, the theater presented "Broadway Goes to Church" at another church in Marietta.

Although showtunes and spirituality may seem like an unusual pairing, the music of Broadway works well in a church concert, Johnson said. Many songs from musicals have a spiritual nature and a connection to God, he noted, including music from "Godspell" and "Jesus Christ Superstar," for example. The music will focus on songs of worship, praise, inspiration and reflection.

A freewill offering will be received at the door to benefit St. Luke's outreach ministries for the Mount Joy Food Bank. Cookies and beverages will be served following the concert.

More information on Susquehanna Stage is available at http://www.susquehannastage.com. To learn more about St. Luke's Episcopal Church, visit https://saintlukemountjoy.org.