Jeri Jacquin

The last time I was fortunate enough to see JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR was in the 90’s in San Diego - and with two of the cast members from the original 1973 Norman Jewison film.

This production tells the story of the final weeks in the life of Christ. Playing the role of Jesus on stage was Ted Neely and Carl Anderson reprised his role as Judas.  I still remember that evening and how much of a rush it was. One of the “tabu” films of my youth was about to play out right before me.

Seeing the film on the sly with a friend (thanks Lila) I had no idea how it would look on stage – and I was not disappointed. With the music of Andrew Lloyd Weber and the lyrics of Tim Rice who could be! All the emotion and beauty came through, as Neely and Andersons’ performance was deep and soul.

So, here I am again, 2010 and about to see JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR – with Neely once again in the role of Jesus. Now I am keenly aware that both Mr. Neely and myself have aged a little since the early 90’s so there was the obvious smidgen of wonder as to how he could pull off this performance.

The stage was set in its simplest form, which I think Jesus himself would appreciate. There are no distractions in the staging to stop the viewer from becoming engrossed in the story, music/lyric, and characters, especially this particular character.

As the lights went down and the stage lit up – song after song from Judas to Mary is pitch perfect and on cue. Once again filled with emotion and beauty there isn’t a moved patron in the house.

Yes, I waited for Neely to sing and when he did my skin tingled as every hair on my arm stood up. My heart skipped a beat and the smile that was happening hurt my face.

Applause erupted as note after sometimes very HIGH note was sung. It was all there, the essence of a role he made famous for my generation now being shared once again with a newer audience. Neely brought them all to their emotional knees. It has been 37 years since the release of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR and the stage production still gives a fresh feel.

John Twiford is Judas who gives a riveting performance of a man torn with “Heaven on their Minds”. Sarah Hanlon is Mary Magdelene who sings so hauntingly “I Don’t Know How to Love Him”.

Other cast include: Darrell  R. Whitney as Caiaphas, Benjamin van Diepen as Pontius Pilate, Adam Scott Campbell as Peter, and Matthew G. Meyers as Simon.   

Do not deny yourself the opportunity to see JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR at the Civic Theatre now playing until January 17^th. For more information go to www.broadwaysd.com for ticket prices and seating.