The West Otago Theatrical Society (WOTS) is staging Jesus Christ Superstar, which tells the story of his last week on earth from the point of view of his disciple Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus.
Tapanui local Jeff Rea, who played Jesus in the 2000 production, returns this year as the production’s musical director, a role he is sharing with Nichi Russell.
The musical’s story had endured the test of time, Mr Rea said.
“It’s 50 years on and people are still doing it, so that tells you … that actually this wasn’t just a two or three-year fad.
“All those … twists and turns that last week took in Jesus’ life … they’re all portrayed on stage and I think it will draw you [viewers] in.
“You’ll enjoy it no matter whether you know Bible stories well or whether you’ve never heard of Jesus.”
Mr Rea said there were more bells and whistles involved in the technical side of the production these days.
“The production around those on stage has improved significantly and [the show is] a bit more of a visual experience, both sound and lighting wise”, he said.
Bernard McKone, who had been involved in shows for over 50 years and starred in about 30 productions said the theatrical society recruited talent from around the Southland region including for Jesus Christ Superstar, which was unheard of three decades ago.
“The strengths of the shows are always better because the pool of people is spread right around.”
Wendy Cook was 16 when she was a dancer in that first production, and is returning as a dancer this year, alongside two of her children. She has performed in more than 15 WOTS productions since.
Mrs Cook said community theatre was a good fit for her 12-year-old daughter Leilani and son Matt, 14.
“They’ve ... been brought up with going to different shows that I’ve been in, and we’ve always got music playing around the house, so they ... love music.”
Their family unit had “a quite strong faith” so the biblical musical was a familiar story, she said.
WOTS created an inclusive environment for fresh blood to come through.
“It’s so important to bring [in] the new generation and have them enjoy it and give them such a great experience.
“My kids being third generation on that stage is quite special,” she said.
The production will run from June 26 to July 4 at the West Otago Community Centre. More information will be released via the WOTS website and Facebook page.
