By TOM LAVIS

TLAVIS@TRIBDEM.COM

A pulsing rock opera about the final seven days of Christ’s life will be presented by the Pitt-Johnstown theater department.

Since it premiered on Broadway in 1971, “Jesus Christ Superstar” has been an audience favorite. Composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Tim Rice provided a jazzy, campy style to the story.

Director Ann Marie Stewart, professor of theater arts, admitted the production, with its 24 songs, is an ambitious undertaking.

“I chose it because it is an important biblical story told in a context that is extremely entertaining and engaging,” Stewart said. “The music and lyrics are pure brilliance, and it is unquestionably full of melodies, rhythms and rock ’n’ roll riffs that are memorable, dynamic and energetic.”

The play will be staged in the Studio Theater of Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center, 450 Schoolhouse Road in Richland Township.

Curtain times are 7:30 p.m. Feb. 18-20 and Feb. 25-27 and 2 p.m. Feb. 21 and Feb. 28.

“Jesus Christ Superstar” dramatizes Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, the unrest caused by his preaching and popularity, his betrayal by Judas, the trial before Pontius Pilate and his ultimate Crucifixion.

Featuring such notable songs as “Superstar,” “Everything’s Alright” and “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” the musical earned five Tony nominations.

“The portrayal of characters such as Jesus, Judas Iscariot and Mary Magdalene is far from cliché; rather they are very real people, complex and filled with passionate emotions,” Stewart said. “Our actors, who are students, alumni and members of the Greater Johnstown community, beautifully portray these iconic characters – sing-ing with power and conviction.”

Bringing the main characters to life are sophomore Zach Pilot as Jesus; Tony Malvoisin of Johnstown portrays Judas; and junior Jaymee Brooks is Mary. UPJ alumnus Doug Meagher is Pilate; senior Josh Devett plays Simon; sophomore Josh Rinaman portrays Herod; junior Robb Miller plays Caiaphas; and senior James Koban has the role of Peter.

Stewart said that the core of the story and conflict is the interpersonal power struggle between Judas and Jesus.

“Judas’ betrayal is a bitter turning point, and his self-inflicted torture is captivating,” Stewart said. “The energy of the production continues to build through the trial by Pilate and the lashing of Jesus, staged in a most unique way, and finally the exquisite suffering of the Crucifixion.”

Webber and Rice intended their work to reflect contemporary attitudes and embrace ironic allusions.

The production combines costuming, sets and props that are both ancient and modern.

“The Roman high priests look as if they just came out of a Harley-Davidson biker bar, clad in leather,” Stewart said. “Jesus’ followers cheer him on like groupies at a rock concert or fanatic fans at a Pens game, and some of the traditionally male roles are filled by women.”

Ananias, the religious second-in-command to Caiaphas, is portrayed by junior Kayt Helsel.

The set design is scaffolding, neutral enough to adapt to many different locations in the course of the musical.

The transitions from song to song happen instantaneously and the set must be versatile.

Lighting also helps the transitions happen seamlessly.

“The design is meant to reveal the inner workings of the theater, rather than disguise it, which is also why the members of the orchestra pit or band are in plain view of the audience, and the set changes are made by the actors,” Stewart said.

Stewart also selected Superstar because the idea of staging the show generated considerable enthusiasm and support.

“Superstar has been performed all over the world, taking a different shape and interpretation each time it is staged, reflecting the culture around it,” she said. “It has endured and adapted, and continues to provide joy and sometimes controversy in audiences.”

Tickets cost $17, $15 and $10.

Tickets may be purchased by calling 269-7200, (800) 846-2787 or by visiting www.upjarts.com.

Tickets also will be available at the door.



Onstage

What: “Jesus Christ Superstar.”

Who: Pitt-Johnstown Theater Department.

Where: Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center, 450 Schoolhouse Road, Richland Township.

When: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 18-20 and Feb. 25-27 and 2 p.m. Feb. 21 and Feb. 28.

Tickets: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays at the box office or by calling 269-7200, (800) 846-2787 or by visiting www.upjarts.com. Also at the door.

Cost: $17 adults, $15 seniors’ discount and $10 students.