In 2006, Michael Shamblin coined the term “Viewsical.” This unique type of production involved live stage 
elements interacting with video characters and footage. The combination of these elements created an unforgettable experience. Once again, in 2006, as GOD was in the process of giving Michael songs at a rapid pace, it was clear that GOD had a bigger plan for these songs than just making them singles and/or worship songs. GOD was opening up the Heavens and sharing a cohesive STORY. It was a glimpse “behind the curtain” of Spiritual Warfare – the “Battle of the Ages.” SO – armed with an amazing array of songs…and coupled with Gwen Shamblin’s anointed gift of writing, direction, and overall Spirit-leading, our first “Viewsical” was born! “The Hosanna Symphony” was written, rehearsed, performed, and recorded in 2006, and Michael continues to work on future Viewsicals. How did such a production come forth inside a Church without “Broadway”-level resources? Read these words from Gwen, penned in 2006 for the original Hosanna Symphony program.
“Thank you God, for through the Remnant, You have shared the ancient gifts to a people who were only born yesterday. God gave it all to Michael, then used the entire Church to proclaim the Good News of the Gospel. What you would say could NEVER happen HAS happened. In a nutshell, this Symphony is a series of one act of God after another. When God is leading, it is like the construction of the Church Building – it is fast and excellent. Michael is the first to admit that God is the only writer; the only credit Michael wants is if he indeed wrote it down like God sent it. We do not commend ourselves, for God sends down treasures that are in jars of clay, and it is an honor to carry out His directives and creativity. When Michael shared with me the first few songs he had written, I knew the world needed to hear this…every word and note moved you to worship God alone. But how do you get this across with our resources? I imagined a set with 3 elements: a choir, an interactive video of satan, and a regular theatrical set. Michael coined the term “Viewsical,” and working closely with Joseph Langsdon, David Martin, and Michael, we set to work on a full production. The writing was the hard part – the production was the fun part!”
This glimpse inside of the beginnings of our first “Viewsical” could go on and on. The history and inspiration behind all of this is chapters long. But suffice it to say, HEAVENLY is the word that best describes the spirit, teamwork, and impact of the Hosanna Symphony. And we pray that there will be MANY more inspired productions in the years to come! Check out this and ALL of our music as you visit our websites!
