After 12 weeks of rehersals, Clara Musical Society’s production of the rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar opened to huge acclaim earlier this week.
Jesus Christ Superstar, the first of many hits penned by the modern day superstars of musical theatre Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, was originally released as a concept double album because no producers were prepared to finance its production on stage.
Taking the lead role of Jesus in Clara’s production is local performer Stephen Rabbette who has progressed through the ranks in the four short years since he made his stage debut. Alongside Stephen is the very talented Athlone native Sinead Farrell as Mary, John Conroy as Judas, Tullamore’s ‘Dom’ Damien Keating returns to the stage in the role of Pilate, and Clara stage regular Simon Canon plays Herod. The high priests are played by Derek Dalton, John McGee, and David Lloyd.
A key feature every year with a Clara show is the high standard and quality of their productions, and this year is bound to be no different. The production team is once again led by director and musical director Alan Recks, with Lea Carroll (fresh from the June Rodgers Show ) making her Clara debut as choreographer. Stage set is under the control of Wayne Handy and his team with Liz Richard and Mary Cornally adding their experienced hands in the wardrobe department - to name just a few.
The music score sounds as fresh today as it did 40 years ago. Hit songs like ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him’ and the title track ‘Superstar’ were hits in their day and are instantly recognisable. Clara Musical Society is now 43 years in existence and it wouldn’t be able to survive without the continued support of the local audience and with a talented cast of almost 40 and an eight-piece live band, this year’s audiences are sure to leave the GAA centre entertained.
Reserved seating bookings can be made online at www.clarams.com or by calling (087 ) 9366247. All seats are €15 for April 11 and 12 and family tickets (two adults and two children ) are available for the Saturday night, April 12 at €50. Don’t miss your chance to see this fine piece of musical theatre on your doorstep.
