Jesus Christ Superstar opens Wednesday (18 photos)

From the creative team that brought les Miserables to the Sault stage last fall comes a modern take on the classic rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar.

Presented by the Musical Comedy Guild, this Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice creation follows the last days of Christ as he struggles with his followers and Judas Iscariot.

Directed by Joseph Lauzon and produced by Thomas Brandstetter, the show includes stunning performances from Noah Morden as Judas Iscariot, Biranna Niro as Mary Magdalene, and special guest tenor from Brazil, Lucas Hernandes (pictured) as Jesus Christ.

“Tim Rice’s lyrics that he wrote back in 1970 have more meaning today than they did then, especially in a world of technology and social media,” Brandstetter told SooToday.com prior to Monday evening’s dress rehearsal. “The show touches on themes of celebrity and fame and what it’s like to be a superstar. We see that today with reality TV and idea of instant fame. The show is probably more relevant today than it was back in the 70s.”

After working in various capacities on a number of productions with Theatre St. Mary’s College, Brandstetter has since produced The Sound of Music and White Christmas with the Sault Symphony Orchestra; and Annie, les Miserables and now Jesus Christ Superstar with the Musical Comedy Guild.

While the majority of stage productions of Jesus Christ Superstar remain set in biblical time until the show finale, Brandstetter said, this Musical Comedy Guild take is entirely set in modern day, making it a unique interpretation.

Jesus Christ Superstar opens at the Kiwanis Community Theatre Centre Wednesday, November 26 at 8 p.m. and closes Sunday, November 30.

Included in the 40-person cast are Rev. Hamish Currie (Pontius Pilate), Anthony Aceti (King Herod), Bill Webb (Caiaphas), Kevin Collar (Annas), Byron Jaaskelainen (Simon Zealotes), Leo Moore (Peter), a huge ensemble cast and Studio Dance Arts dancers.

Tickets are on sale now at the Community Box Office in the Station Mall or online at www.kctc.ca.

As a special promotion for Jesus Christ Superstar ticket holders, the Musical Comedy Guild is offering advanced discounted tickets for its 2015 production of Mary Poppins starting December 2, 2014.

Tickets will be available to the general public starting January 6, 2015.

For more information about the Musical Comedy Guild, please click here.