"Jesus Christ Superstar"

I had the great good fortune Saturday night to catch the final presentation of Jesus Christ Superstar, as presented by CYAC.

It's long been a favorite of mine - the original album was one of the first records I ever bought, and I still own it. I've seen the movie, I've seen the touring show with Ted Neely, and I even directed a local version eight years ago.

So this show had a lot to live up to, and I'm happy to say it was tremendous - I thoroughly enjoyed it!

And so did the sold-out crowd that filled the Capitol Theater. Playing the title role was Ryan Hardiman, and he turned in one of his most compelling and emotional performances yet (and that's saying something). The powerful music in the show allowed him to really crank it up, and he turned in an amazing performance.

The show is something of a triangle - you need a great performer for Jesus, of course, but you also need a great Judas and a compelling Mary Magdalene - and they succeeded on both counts.

Playing Judas was Donnie Smith, and he was amazing - emotional, heart-breaking, energetic - it takes a big singer to keep up with Ryan, and Donnie did just that. Very impressive!

Erin Martin also impressed as Mary Magdalene - she has a sweet, soulful voice, and a wonderful stage presence.

None of that is to slight the rest of the cast, who also did excellent work. Ted Brightwell killed as King Herod (in the show's funniest number). Craig Auge was excellent as Pilate. John Valleau brought his powerful bass voice to make a delightful Caiphas.

The cast turned in excellent work and received a well-earned standing ovation at the end. Kudos to director Dan Kehde, Music Director Mark Scarpelli and his excellent 15-piece orchestra, choreographer Rob Royce and the entire cast and crew for an outstanding production.

If you missed this one - shame on you!