‘Jesus Christ Superstar,’ the groundbreaking theatrical masterpiece by legendary writing team Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, is coming to the Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s Andrew Jackson Hall, May 30-31, for three performances. The first collaboration between Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice to be performed on the professional stage, ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ is one of the most popular and enduring works ever created for the musical theatre. Featuring such notable songs as ‘Superstar,’ ‘Everything’s All Right’ and ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him,’ ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ earned five Tony Award nominations. Set in two acts, ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ tells the story of the last seven days in the life of Jesus of Nazareth. “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. Perpetually changing the face of musical theatre, ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ will leave audiences captivated by its power. As relevant and timeless as ever, ‘Jesus Christ Superstar,’ the rock opera vision of “the greatest story ever told,” is perhaps more potent in today’s troubled world than when it was first produced. Now, for the new millennium, this magnificent story comes once again vividly to the stage with Ted Neeley recreating his unforgettable performance. “The only way I can accurately describe ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ is that it’s truly timeless,” said Kathleen O’Brien, TPAC’s president and CEO. “This rock opera has been, well, rocking for decades and is still a significant, well received, important piece of theater. And it’s amazing that audiences have the undeniable treat of seeing Ted Neeley in the role he is best known for. The production is only here for three performances, so tickets will go fast.” Internationally beloved star Ted Neeley, best known for his Golden Globe-nominated role as Jesus in the Norman Jewison film of “Superstar,” will be headlining this tour of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar.’ Featured in the role of Judas will be Corey Glover, best known as the lead singer of the Grammy winning, platinum selling rock band, Living Colour (“Cult of Personality”). Glover also has issued albums as a solo artist and acted in television and movies including Oliver Stone’s Platoon. Glover reunited with his Living Colour band mates for a 2001 tour. ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ marks Corey’s theatrical debut. Tennessee native Tiffini Dodson will play Mary Magdalene. Dodson, a Belmont University graduate, was born and raised in Smyrna. She joined the cast of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ in 2006. Other credits include regional productions of ‘Oklahoma!,’ ‘Crazy for You,’ ‘Pippin’ and ‘Anything Goes.’ Seen and loved by thousands, don’t miss the opportunity to introduce a new generation to this exhilarating and significant piece of musical theatre. ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ is the original rock opera. Tickets for ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ range from $20-66, depending on performance time and seat location. For tickets, visit www.tpac.org/superstar, the TPAC Box Office (Downtown or at Davis-Kidd Booksellers in The Mall at Green Hills), or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets may also be purchased by calling Ticketmaster at 615/255-ARTS (2787). Group discounts for 20 or more are available by calling 615/782-4060.
