Special to 1812Blockhouse
The Renaissance Theatre proudly presents Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s legendary rock opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, for a limited engagement on March 8-9 and March 15-16 as part of the Park National Bank Broadway Series. This groundbreaking musical, which has captivated audiences worldwide for over 50 years, reimagines the final days of Jesus through the eyes of Judas Iscariot, set to an electrifying 1970s rock score.
“Jesus Christ Superstar is an iconic show because it challenges audiences to see “The greatest story ever told” from a different perspective,” said Director Ryan Shealy. “This production is emotional and deeply human, audiences are in for something truly extraordinary.”
This production features a thrilling cast led by guest artist Caleb Predeep Mathura as Jesus of Nazareth, as well as amazing Ohio-based talent and three fantastic women in the roles of Judas, Mary, and Pilate; two of which are traditionally male roles.
Director Ryan Shealy shares some of his considerations when making these unique casting decisions, “This adaptation asks the audience to understand that there are good and bad in all people, including the usual ‘villains’. By casting these characters more diversely, we can see more of ourselves in this story and relate its lessons to today’s world.”
A Story Told Entirely Through Music
Since its Broadway debut in 1971, Jesus Christ Superstar has mesmerized audiences with its blend of rock and theatrical storytelling. The show features unforgettable songs such as “Superstar,” “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” and “Gethsemane,” performed by a stellar cast, including:
- Caleb Predeep Mathura as Jesus of Nazareth
- Kelly Knowlton as Judas Iscariot
- Shauna Marie as Mary Magdalene
- Samantha Woodill as Pontius Pilate
- Robert Hardin-Leeth as King Herod
- Jacob Poiner as Caiaphas
- Nikki Stitak as Annas
- Ensemble: Darius Darmody, Carter King, Molly McClanahan, Jackie Metz, Zakari Ramos, Christian Shepherd, and Torre Webber
About Caleb Predeep Mathura
A proud Trinidadian-American performer, Caleb Predeep Mathura is a graduate of the Conservatory of Performing Arts at Point Park University with a BFA in Musical Theatre and a Minor in Dance. His impressive career includes starring roles in Come Fall in Love (The Old Globe), David (Off-Broadway), and Pippin (The Pittsburgh Playhouse), along with his acclaimed portrayal of Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar at Timberlake Playhouse.
“Caleb Mathura’s portrayal of Jesus was absolutely beautiful — one of the best I’ve ever seen…” – Rochelle Arnold, River Cities’ Reader
Performance Dates & Ticket Information
- Saturday, March 8 at 7:30 PM
- Sunday, March 9 at 2:30 PM
- Saturday, March 15 at 7:30 PM
- Sunday, March 16 at 2:30 PM
Tickets start at $15 and are available now at www.rentickets.org or by calling or visiting the Renaissance Theatre box office at 419-522-2726, 138 Park Avenue West in Mansfield.
Source, Image: Renaissance Performing Arts Association
