Neely’s ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ Returns With Glitz, Glamour
Theater
Get ready for the Third Coming.
This will be the third time the Ted Neeley version of “Jesus Christ Superstar” has come to Spokane. It sold out the Opera House for a pair of performances in December ‘93 and another pair in August ‘94.
A second show has already been added to this visit due to high demand.
Having seen the show when it passed through the first time, I can understand why demand is so high.
As directed by Tony Christopher, this version has exemplary production values. In fact, it borrows extensively from the technology of rock concerts (headphone mikes, motorized banks of lights) to deliver a powerful visual and sonic punch.
At times, it even crosses the line into Vegas glitz. As Jesus (Neeley) is crucified and ascends into heaven, the cross begins to twinkle and sparkle.
Sound tacky?
Surprisingly enough, it doesn’t come across that way. All of the glitz and glitter tends to enhance the dramatic power of the story instead of detract from it. The spectacular production serves to bring this show up to date, something that this early Andrew Lloyd Webber-Tim Rice collaboration sorely needs. It sometimes depicts Jesus as a ‘60s flower-power guru.
Ted Neeley is the star attraction, reprising his most famous role (actually, his only famous role) from the 1973 movie version. No advance word on who has the role of Judas, which is usually the big scene-stealing role.
“Jesus Christ Superstar” will run Monday and Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at the Spokane Opera House. Tickets are $39.50 and $34.50, available through all G&B Select-a-Seat outlets, or by calling 325-SEAT or 1-800-325-SEAT.
‘Moonnot August’
Washington State University’s University Theatre presents “Moonnot August,” a premiere work by Alaskan Ann Reddig, Wednesday through April 20 at the Wadleigh Little Theatre on the WSU campus in Pullman. Reddig describes the play as a “romp in the Alaskan wilderness.”
It’s about a young woman who goes placer mining with her fiance in the Alaskan interior, where she copes with the hardships by creating a fantasy life.
The production is director Jan Richmond’s final project for her master’s degree, involving working with a playwright to produce a new play.
The show runs at 8 each night. General-admission tickets are $3. Call 335-7236.
‘Murder at Rutherford House’
The Cutter Theater in Metaline Falls stages this audience-participation mystery dinner-theater Friday through April 20.
Everybody receives a character name and a dossier as they arrive. A “murder” takes place, and everyone tries to solve it over a four-course dinner. An award goes to the guest who best solves the “Murder at Rutherford House.”
The show runs Friday, Saturday, April 19 and 20 at 6 p.m. at the Cutter Theatre. Tickets are $20 per person, or $35 per couple. Call (509) 446-4108 for reservations.
, DataTimes ILLUSTRATION: Color photo