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Jesus
Christ Superstar Rocks Corvallis
A story is either told well or told poorly. Corvallis Community Theatre's production of Jesus Christ Superstar is told quite well. Beginning with a startlingly original opening percussion sequence merged into the overture, first time director Leah Burgy has made stylistic choices that keep the action moving and emphasize the essentially political nature of the play, which is surprisingly secular and humanistic in its focus. Beyond a few nifty prophecies by Jesus, there is little divinity in the play; Jesus performs no miracles and is overwhelmed by the throngs demanding that he heal them. Does he rise from the dead? The play only shows that he was crucified. Jesus, here, is presented as a man caught up in what is, perhaps, a no-win situation. Everyone projects their needs onto Jesus while his message is largely unheard or misunderstood. Some want him to lead a violent insurgency against the occupying Roman forces; Judas Iscariot sees him as having lost his earthly mission with all the talk of heavenly kingdoms; and even the apostles are shown as vain and self-important, not really getting it. As Stephen Colbert might say, they're not "it" getters. All of this is conveyed at breakneck speed and is easy to follow. Marilee Sherwood's costume designs, mostly modern dress, instantly separate the good guys from the bad guys. Roman Centurions are presented as breast-plated Nazis while Pharisees sport stylish yet sinister full length black coats. The cast is enthusiastic and hard working in what, for many, must be a labor of evangelical zeal. If so, it's a charming evangelism. The score can be very challenging, but Nathan Boal, in his singing and acting debut, acquits himself well as Jesus. Pat Megowan as Pontius Pilate and Joie Noble as Mary Magdalene display fine singing voices as well, but Craig Farrell simply rocks the house down with his performance as Judas Iscariot. Jesus Christ Superstar shows at Majestic Theatre in Corvallis May 18-21 and 24-28. Tickets are $12 adults, $10 stu./sr. For more info call (541) 738-7469.
Opening Nights A Midsummer Night's Dream Opens Friday, May 19 at UO's Robinson Theatre. Shakespeare's most popular play follows four young lovers and a group of amateur actors as they interact with the fairy inhabitants of a moonlit forest. Performances are May 19, 20, 25-27 and June 2-4. Call the EMU ticket office at 346-4363 for tickets.
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