An Easter message: Westmoreland Performing Arts presents ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’
Courtesy of Westmoreland Performing Arts
In the final performance of their season, Westmoreland Performing Arts Professional Theatre Company will present “Jesus Christ Superstar” at 7:30 p.m. March 29 and 30.
The musical chronicles the last seven days of Jesus’ life as told through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. It features 1970’s rock scores such as “Superstar,” “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” and “Gethsemane.”
“People love this story. Some come because they are very religious. Others are spiritual or just simply enjoy the story,” said Director Tony Marino. “Ultimately, I think it comes down to the music. Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice wrote this in the late 1960’s and the first production on Broadway was in 1971. If you like rock n’ roll from the 70’s, this score is going to float your boat.”
Marino said The Palace Theatre in Greensburg provides just what they need for scenes in “Jesus Christ Superstar.”
As a homage to passion plays of the 15th century, the stage is designed as a cathedral.
“It gives an opportunity to use classical artwork that changes during the show and reflects what’s happening on stage,” Marino said. “The theatre is absolutely beautiful and provides the perfect setting.”
The idea of a passion play isn’t new to Marino. He has personal experience of witnessing the impact passion plays can have on the community.
At a young age, Marino watched his father put on live stations at the cross at Easter time, depicting the last week of Christ’s life. It included tableaux, lights, effects and elaborate costumes made by Marino’s mother.
“It was my first introduction to theater,” Marino said. “I love the idea of the community coming together to create a passion play and ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ is a fascinating bit of theater while you’re watching this person struggling with the most difficult decision they’ve ever had to make. It truly presents a human portrait of Jesus. He’s a man struggling with his divinity and his mission.”
Westmoreland Performing Arts includes professional actors, local professionals who are a part of the Actor’s Equity Association and college students in the main cast. Younger students participate in the ensemble.
It’s all a part of the WPA’s mission.
“We’re a school for performing arts and a theater company. The younger students in the ensemble have the opportunity to be mentored by professional actors and they also have opportunities to perform,” Marino said. “We offer classes for youth and summer camps as well.”
Cast members include: Anthony Marino Jr. as Jesus, Abigail McGinnis as Mary Magdalene, Tony Marino as Judas, Kevin O’Leary as Pilate, Alex Podolinksi as Simon Zealotes, J. Alex Noble as Annas, John Noble as Caiaphas, Renata Marino as Herod and Ben Federico as Peter.
“I’m incredibly proud of the cast of 65. Our youngest cast member is just 7 years old, and we have a wonderful range of individuals and talent,” Marino said.
Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. on March 29 and 30. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.thepalacetheatre.org/ or by calling 724-836-8000.