When the musical
Jesus Christ Superstar by Andrew Lloyd Weber debuted on Broadway in 1971, the nation was in the grips of an ideological divide over where America should head next. Its main subject matter was reflective and not so far removed from the nation, which had just experienced the loss of so many idealistic leaders of the era prior. Jesus Christ, much like King and the Kennedys (and many other less celebrated individuals) had risen to the times and, in speaking simple truths, paid the ultimate sacrifice with his life.
The story of
Jesus Christ Superstar is loosely based on the Gospels' accounts of the last week of Jesus's life but does so in a style later coined as rock opera for its modern score and political updating of the life of Christ.
This new production led by Ben Hunter — last seen closing out the David Bowie tribute concert event at The Pyramid Scheme — mounts this production of Jesus Christ Superstar with a veteran cast of performers, musicians and artists from our city. The revival of this production ironically arrives again during a period of our history where two very competitive visions of our future are playing out politically in advance of the November election. Good art, like this musical, have a delightful knack of being timeless.
And while it is a popular story, this updated production reminds us all of the power of one to make an impact on this world for the betterment of all humanity.
This one-night-only production is a benefit for Well House, a Grand Rapids-based nonprofit organization focused on providing safe, affordable housing to the homeless.
Well House believes the solution to homelessness is housing, and it purchases vacant, boarded-up houses, bringing them back to life. The Well House provides housing to those who are living on the streets or in emergency shelters. In addition, whenever possible, Well House hires tenants to help with the rehabilitation of the properties. Since January of 2013, Well House have purchased 12 houses and moved 91 people off the street.
Advance
tickets are on sale and are recommended to ensure admission to this thrilling night of musical theatre which includes a full band.
Admission: $10 (benefits The Well House)