When Godspell closes Oct. 7 at the Theatre at Saint Peter's Church to make way for the York Theatre's season, the musical based on the life of Jesus Christ won't be dead. A third transfer for the popular Third Eye Repertory revival of Stephen Schwartz's Godspell is expected, with negotiations near to completion for the next venue.

Performances began July 18 at the Theatre at Saint Peter's Church for an opening Aug. 2.

A basic retelling of the last days of Jesus Christ, Godspell features the hit "Day by Day," "Save the People" and "Learn Your Lessons Well" and was made into a 1973 film staring Victor Garber and David Haskell. Third Eye's version, hippie-free, Schwartz insisted in a statement, has new lyrics by Schwartz, updated dialogue, new arrangements and a contemporary directorial vision.

Third Eye Rep's Shawn Rozsa is the director, leading a cast including Shoshana Bean, Tim Cain, Catherine Carpenter, Will Erat, Barrett Foa, Lucia Giannetta, Capathia Jenkins (The Civil War), Chad Kimball, Leslie Kritzer and Eliseo Roman.

Designing the production are Broadway's William Ivey Long (costumes), Kevin Lock (sets) and Herrick Goldman (lighting). Tickets are $50-$45. The Theatre at Saint Peter's is located at 619 Lexington Avenue at 54th Street. For reservations, call (212) 307-4100. This production of Godspell is on the web at http://www.godspellny.com.

-- By Christine Ehren