Little Theatre of Fall River does 'Jesus Christ Superstar' justice

By Lorraine Lucciola, Standard-Times correspondent

Just because a play is as popular today as it was when it first hit the commercial stage doesn't necessarily mean that it is easy to produce.

This is true of the Little Theatre of Fall River's current production of the Tim Rice/Andrew Lloyd Webber groundbreaking rock musical, "Jesus Christ Superstar."

The cast features more than 100 people, from those in leading and supporting roles to the last little boy or girl walking across the stage at the end of a scene.

In fact, it seems that anyone who auditioned was most likely cast. And, it appears that every dance student who has ever twirled in front of a studio mirror has landed on the BCC stage.

There's definitely power in numbers. And numbers mean bountiful ticket sales, a plus for any theater group. Yet the auditioning, casting and staging of a show of this magnitude is a tall order! The Little Theatre of Fall River expertly rises to the occasion.

The musical debuted in 1971, at a time in our history when demonstrations for social causes were frequent. Often, the impetus for these events sprang from mistreatment of or disregard for the under-valued in our country and in other parts of the world. For the purposes of this play, Christ could be considered to be an overwhelming underdog; an unremarkable man, whose simple life and death changed the world.

This production brings Aaron Gendreau back to the stage as an intelligent and compassionate Jesus. He exudes his own charisma, as an actor and that of a Christ figure. Mr. Gendreau is right on target in his demeanor and delivery of lines and music, and consistently conveys the common man/awesome Messiah dichotomy.

If one had to pick a single element of this show to praise, it has to be the caliber and quality of musical and vocal direction. Jane Fiore Bigelow directs a fantastically sharp orchestra, doing perfect justice to a difficult score.

The vocal agility of the actors is also amazing. These are strong, sure and powerful voices, that make changing keys and tempo, sound as natural as breathing.

Taryn Mallard-Reid, in the role of Mary Magdalene, is true to this character's ambivalence about who Jesus is and why he makes her feel as if no one and nothing else exists.

Try as she may to figure it and him out, she is as confused as any woman in denial. Ms. Mallard-Reid gives an emotionally charged performance. Her rendition of "I Don't Know How to Love Him" is beautifully delivered. Its sentiments become her anthem in a relationship that defies belief or description.

Ken Ettress is at the top of his game as Judas. This consummate actor, singer and dancer carefully creates Judas and makes him his own. The transition from friend and supporter of Jesus to an easily influenced traitor happens gradually at first, then spirals downward in pitiful regret. Mr. Ettress captures the stage in an unforgettable performance.

Tom Marcello is outstanding as a matter-of-fact Pontius Pilate. He deftly personifies the look and feel of compassion, then tersely becomes impatient and judgmental. What we see is a real person, wielding power and position.

The entrance of Herod is a show-stopper and much needed comic relief. Brian McCann is a marvelously campy Herod, consumed with an inflated sense of self. The glitz, humor and natural stage presence of this performer takes us where we would like to go ourselves, but wouldn't dare.

In supporting roles are Michael Wrobleski as Caiaphas. (You'll be hypnotized by his vocal ability). David Faria gives us a wired, intense Annas and remarkable vocal delivery. Robert Houde II as Simon is natural and comfortable in the role and is an integral part of the ensemble. John Ashley, as Peter, is quiet, yet firm in his devotion to Jesus.

Direction by Jeff Belanger and Janice MacDonald has resulted in another spectacular success for Little Theatre. Teamwork among cast, crew, technical workers, right down to the ushers and folks at the ticket booth, is readily felt.

The Little Theatre of Fall River joins millions of Americans in their efforts to aid the national Disaster Relief Fund in the wake of the Sept. 11. attack. Representatives from the American Red Cross and donation bins will be located in the lobby of the Margaret L. Jackson Arts Center during the run of "Jesus Christ Superstar" for those who would like to contribute.

The Little Theatre of Fall River's production of "Jesus Christ Superstar" continues at 8 this evening and concludes tomorrow with a 2 p.m. matinee. All performances are in the theater of the Margaret L. Jackson Arts Center of Bristol Community College, Elsbree Street, Fall River. Tickets are $15, $12 for seniors and students, and $5 for children under 12 years of age.

For information and reservations call Little Theatre's box office at (508) 675-1852.

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