Levoy Theatre – Jesus Christ Superstar
Why Jesus Christ Superstar Rocks the House
Did you know that Jesus Christ Superstar was actually an album before it was a musical? That’s right – and it was controversial from the start as its authors, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice told the story of Jesus Christ in a way that hadn’t been done before. While it ruffled the feathers of many religious groups early on, the musical struck a chord with Christians and non-Christians alike by bringing the gospel to life via contemporary music.
After 40 years of performances in 42 countries, Jesus Christ Superstar remains one of the most successful and sought-after musicals worldwide. The story is timeless and set against the backdrop of a series of historical events seen through the eyes of Judas Iscariot, one of the 12 apostles. After a few unofficial previews at New York-area high schools, the show made its Broadway debut on October 12, 1971 at the Mark Hellinger Theatre.
Cast of characters
The musical has 10 main characters that tell the story of the relationship between Jesus and Judas during the time just before the crucifixion is set to happen. While the story is based on the gospel, it was created using a generous helping of creative license. Here’s the cast of characters:
Judas – One of the musical’s two main characters, Judas is worried that Jesus may be taking his teachings a little too far, risking the wrath of the Romans on all of them.
Jesus Christ — The second main character, Jesus knows that the end is near and is irritable, tense and disappointed that his apostles don’t seem to care. Jesus is close to Judas, but the two do not see eye-to-eye on things.
Mary Magdalene – The musical portrays Mary Magdalene as a woman who is falling in love with Jesus.
Peter – Deny, deny, deny. Peter loves Jesus, but denies knowing him three times to escape arrest and persecution. Unlike Judas, though, Peter is ashamed of himself and repents strenuously.
Simon – The most aggressive of the characters, Simon wants Jesus to lead the Jews in a battle against the Romans.
Caiaphas and Annas – These two characters are the Pharisees, or High Priests, who arrest Jesus and hand him over to be executed.
Pontius Pilot and King Herod – While both of these men played major roles in the final decision to crucify Jesus, they are present, but play minor roles in the musical.
Rock Opera is in the house
Have you been to the opera? How about to a rock opera? The main difference is that in a rock opera, the story is told through rock music as opposed to the classical genre that’s common in most traditional opera performances. Jesus Christ Superstar is told through 23 original songs that rock in every sense of the word.
You can experience it all at the Levoy Theatre beginning on March 18. Whether you are a long-time fan of the show, or seeing it for the very first time, the Levoy Theatre is the perfect setting. The theatre, located in Millville, NJ has a rich history that began in 1908. It features a 480-seat orchestra and 220-seat balcony. Just beyond the orchestra pit, the ornate proscenium fronts state of the art rigging and a full fly system. The Mezzanine and Lobby will draw you in with their historical displays and class. The Levoy will feature seven performances of Jesus Christ Superstar from March 18-26. We’ll see you there. In the meantime, rock on!
