For over 40 years, Jesus Christ Superstar has made connections with generation after generation. I can remember hearing the record playing on our old turntable; I remember seeing the movie for the first time during a TV broadcast (on a very small screen), and then receiving the honor to meet and work as a dresser for Ted Neeley’s farewell tour. This show has a history of its own and yet we must somehow make this beloved show, this intense story, this belief of millions of people our own.
The unique draw of Jesus Christ Superstar is that it is told through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. The man most of us were brought up to see as the “villain”. However, in this tale you see a friend who is desperately trying to do the right thing for his friend, and then realizes he is a part of a much greater plan; a plan in which he cannot escape. The human experience that is present in this musical, I believe, is the reason so many are drawn to it. We are able to see those “perfect” beings we have heard about our entire lives as regular people like us, who make mistakes like us, and have regrets like us.
In order to pull our cast further into this story, we have been comparing Jerusalem at the time of Christ to modern day Aleppo. The tumultuous overthrow of governments, the power struggles, and the simple people who have no choice but to live through it. Just as our set is split down the middle so were the people of Jerusalem. Those of Jerusalem were torn between the Roman Empire and a commerce filled with worldly goods or their foundation. The foundation of the Judean culture and a religion that has defined their very existence since its inception. Each character is torn between keeping his head down and following the laws of the Romans or becoming a disciple of this radical man who may or may not be the chosen one called forth in scripture. Present still, are the common yet difficult choices, which we still face today. Do you follow a friend knowing he may be in danger, or do you speak up and try to help? Will the choice you make be right one? Each day is filled with decisions. Some choices are easy while some are much more difficult. Early on this year, I was faced with a decision that would change my life forever, no matter what choice I made.
In three years, we have created 12 unique productions, competed at the state level with both a one act and in technically elements, elected a state officer, won scholarships, became reinstated as a troupe in the International Thespian Society, gained Honor Troupe status, inducted 84 members, performed a variety of community and service learning events, brought Sensory Friendly productions to the secondary level in Missouri, and so much more! The five year plan I put in place at my time of hire has been completed by these amazing young artists in just three.
I would give anything to be able to continue to create art here in this beautiful space with these wonderful kids; however, that is just not in the cards at this point. We have far exceeded all expectations which could possibly have been in place. We have accomplished more in these short three years than most troupes do in thirty. Without the love and support of our community, this could never have happened. I look forward to seeing the achievements and adventures these amazing young people are about to undertake.
Remember, there is no problem that can’t be fixed with a little glitter. No obstacle that can’t be knocked down if you swing your hammer hard enough. No flaw that can’t be covered with a little makeup or the right lighting. Never enough coffee and soda during late nights. No mood that can’t be corrected with the perfect sound track. Never enough 1930s wear. No amount of soap will ever get insulation foam off. No outfit is complete without a paint stain. And no mama goose could ever go one day without her goslings. I love you all! Never stop making your dreams come true! Never let another person decide for you for you are your own worst enemy and your own biggest fan!
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