Thursday, March 28, 2024

3B Productions presents Jesus Christ Superstar

Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching, and what better way to spend the day than at the theater? 3B Productions’ will be presenting Jesus Christ Superstar this weekend, and is sure impress audiences with Toledo’s local talent.

Mesmerizing and moving
Jesus Christ Superstar will mark the first time 3B Productions has included a winter show in their season, and if successful in this production, director Joe Barton says audiences can expect a winter show to become a yearly occurrence.  

The story loosely follows the Gospels’ accounts of Jesus’ last week on Earth, from his arrival to Jerusalem to his crucifixion. The play also focuses on an interpersonal struggle between Jesus and Judas Iscariot.

Despite the storyline concentrating on a biblical topic, this 1970s rock opera is nothing like your typical Sunday church service. With composition by Andrew Lloyd Weber (well known for The Phantom of the Opera and Cats compositions) and lyrics by Tim Rice (Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Evita), the music in this production is mesmerizing and moving— drawing in the audience as the overture begins.

Bringing passion to performance
Since this is such a well-known story, according to Barton, “Making it fresh for both the cast and, ultimately the audience, is important.” He further explained that the show will be using a unit set, to ensure that the “audience doesn’t miss the ‘bells and whistles’ of a big set.” He is greatly focusing on making sure that each musical number is unique, as well as modern, with the use of contemporary costumes.

With a cast of over forty individuals, space can be a limitation. Barton announced, “We will be using a thrust [expansion of the stage] around the orchestra to pull the cast closer to the audience… I will be using the entire theatre as the stage, so look for the aisles to be used a lot during this show.”

As every show from 3B Productions proves, Toledo is full of incredible talent. Barton stated, “This cast brings such passion; physically, emotionally and vocally, to every rehearsal… Show after show I am amazed at the level of talent and professionalism in our community.”

Jesus Christ Superstar marks the beginning of 3B’s eleventh season, which will also include Legally Blonde in May and Disney’s The Little Mermaid (as the summer teen show). For more information about 3B Productions, like them on Facebook or visit 3BProductions.org.

8pm Thursday, February 11-Saturday, February 13 & 2:30pm Sunday, February 14. $15/$17.
The Maumee Indoor Theatre, 601 Conant St., Maumee. 3bproductions.org/tickets

 

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