Little Theatre gathers cast of 100 for 'Jesus Christ Superstar'

By Lorraine Lucciola, Standard-Times correspondent

Under the dual direction of Jeff Belanger and Janice MacDonald, the Little Theatre of Fall River prepares to deliver yet another memorable gift to the Greater Fall River community

The theater group's ambitious production of "Jesus Christ Superstar," the trend-setting rock musical blockbuster by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, just happens to arrive at a time when its messages will be most heartfelt.

Mr. Belanger and Ms. MacDonald have successfully collaborated in the past on Little Theatre productions in what have been recalled as true accomplishments. "Big" shows are crowd-pleasers -- and popular at the box office. Little Theatre's most popular and profitable shows, under Mr. Belanger's direction, include "Oliver!," "La Cage Aux Folles" and "The King and I."

Ms. MacDonald, a dancer, performer, teacher and choreographer by profession, has created the choreography for the show with Mr. Belanger. They are assisted by Loralee Levesque.

"We have both choreographed it ('Jesus Christ Superstar') before for other theater groups and always enjoyed working together. With a cast of 100 people from the area, 'Jesus Christ Superstar' is the first Lloyd Webber show that Little Theatre has produced," says Mr. Belanger.

The action of the play focuses on the last seven days of Christ's life.

In powerful dramatic and musical moments, we follow Christ's charismatic arrival in Jerusalem, where he encounters mistrust and criticism. The betrayal by Judas, the trial before Pontius Pilate and Christ's ultimate crucifixion guarantee an exciting theatrical event for the actors and for those who see it.

Aaron Gendreau, as Jesus, is joined by other veteran performers in major roles. Kenny Ettrress plays Judas; Taryn Mallard-Reid is Mary Magdalene; Tom Marcello portrays Pontius Pilate and Brian McCann plays Herod.

Supporting players include Bobby Houde (Simon), John Ashley (Peter), Michael Wrobleski (Caiaphas) and David Faria (Annas).

Musical direction is by Jane Fiore-Bigelow. Costumes were created by Fran Petisca and Tom Marcello. The set was designed and executed by Mr. Belanger and Darlene Miller. Sound was designed by Garret LaFrance and Shawn Elliot is technical adviser at BCC. Kathy Castro is stage manager with assistance from Donna Klamkin.

"There is no theatrical event like it," says Ms. MacDonald. "The audience becomes tremendously involved in these final days of Christ and creates a community of emotional support for the players on stage."

"It's a tremendous experience for the actors and audience," adds Mr. Belanger.

The Little Theatre of Fall River's production of "Jesus Christ Superstar" open at 8 tonight at the Margaret L. Jackson Arts Center at Bristol Community College, Elsbree Street, Fall River. The production continues tomorrow evening through Saturday at 8 and concludes with a matinee on Sunday at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $15, $12 for seniors and students and $5 for children, 12 years of age and under. For reservations and information call (508) 675-1852.

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