SU's Opera Theatre Ensemble Performs 'Jesus Christ Superstar'

SALISBURY, MD---Salisbury University’s Opera Theatre Ensemble performs Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s iconic rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar Wednesday-Sunday, December 5-9, in the Black Box Theatre of Fulton Hall. All performances are sold out.

Directed by Dr. John Wesley Wright and Matt Saltzberg of the Music, Theatre and Dance Department, with musical direction by Dr. William Folger, department co-chair, curtain is 8 p.m., 2 p.m. Sunday.

Loosely based on the Gospels’ accounts of the last week of Jesus’ life before his crucifixion, the musical began as a bestselling album in 1970 before a stage version brought the songs to life on Broadway the following year, earning five Tony nominations.

“From concept album to global phenomenon, the iconic and historically celebrated production with its musically anachronistic setting of the Jesus story features SU’s most explosive and finest vocal talent,” said Wright.

Lance Fisher plays Jesus, Jay Copeland Judas and Gigi Pesaniello Mary Magdalene. The cast also includes Adam Beres, Joshua Dennis, Patrick Gover, Justin Kreiger, Brett Stiles and Jeffrey Todd.

Scenic design is by John Raley, costume design by Georgia Fried, lighting design by Michael Cummings and projection design by Ryan Bailey. Choreography is by Staci Alexander.

The New York Times called Jesus Christ Superstar “memorable and often moving.” The Washington Post praised “the power of the story.”

Sponsored by the Music, Theatre and Dance Department, admission is $12; $9 for seniors 62+, SU alumni and all students. Advance tickets may be purchased online at www.salisbury.edu/academic-offices/liberal-arts/music-theatre-and-dance/performing-arts-box-office.aspx, by phone at 410-543-6228, at the SU Box Office (Fulton Hall Room 100, Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.).

For more information call 410-548-5588 or visit the SU website.