In 1976, a Truman student named Michael Massari auditioned for Volpe's production of "Godspell" and won the role of Jesus. However, he was also the captain of the wrestling team, and the wrestling coach said the boy's participation in "Godspell" would mean too much time away from the sport. A meeting was held to resolve the issue and the coach didn't show up, boycotting the meeting and refusing to alter his stance. Massari quit wrestling to participate in "Godspell." Volpe said that Massari's decision caused a shift at the school and more athletes began to participate in drama productions. "An athlete was in the show," Volpe said of "Godspell." "It was unprecedented, and it was shocking."
Jeff Christensen/AP
