Addison Trail to present 'Jesus Christ Superstar'
When Addison Trail High School presents its winter musical, "Jesus Christ Superstar," the 1970 rock opera will have a different twist.
"We are setting the story in the 1920s," said Anna Jakubka, Addison Trail theater director. "The character of Jesus Christ will represent the poor faction of people; the character of Al Capone will represent King Herod; the police officers will represent Pontius Pilate and the Roman guards; and members of the mafia will represent the high priests."
The show begins at 7 p.m. Thursday to Saturday, Jan. 21 to 23, and at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, at Addison Trail, 213 N. Lombard Road, Addison. Between the two productions on Jan. 23, the Teacher-Parent Organization will host a Spaghetti Dinner from 4 to 6:15 p.m. Dinner tickets are $6, $3 for seniors 65 and older and ages 3 to 10, and free for younger children. See details in English and Spanish at dupage88.net/site/public/files/?item=2663.
"Jesus Christ Superstar" tells the story of the last week of Jesus' life, focusing on the relationships between the characters and their emotions, which motivate them toward certain actions. The story is told through the viewpoint of Judas Iscariot, one of the 12 apostles of Jesus.
Jakubka said this is her first time directing the show, and she's thrilled at the opportunity. Addison Trail Orchestra Director Dan O'Connell is particularly fond of the production, so the musical will honor his upcoming retirement at the end of the school year.
"The music in this production is phenomenal," Jakubka said. "The pit never stops playing - the show just flows from one piece to the next."
Senior Michael Bellino will play Jesus Christ and said it has been a fun challenge to get into character.
"Everyone has a vision of who and what these characters are," Bellino said. "We're telling a story many audience members are familiar with and portraying people they believe in."
Junior Sevina Topalska, who will play Mary Magdalene, said the cast is really focusing on the story and character development.
"No matter what your religious beliefs, you will enjoy this show," Topalska said. "You can relate to the characters and their emotions and thoughts, regardless of your religious preference."
The role of Judas Iscariot will be played by senior Cab Callaway, who said audience members are in for a surprise.
"Whether you know the story of Jesus or not, this musical will be very different from your expectations," Callaway said. "We're excited to show the audience we can bring this caliber of music and production to a high school."
Tickets are $7 for adults, $5 for students and children 3 to 12, or $3 with an Activity Pass, and are free with a District 88 Senior Gold Card. To buy tickets, contact (630) 628-3365 or at.theatre88@gmail.com.
If you go
What: "Jesus Christ Superstar"
When: 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Jan. 21 and 22; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23
Where: Addison Trail High School, 213 N. Lombard Road, Addison
Tickets: $7 adults, $5 students and children 3 to 12, $3 with Activity Pass, free with District 88 Senior Gold Card
Info: (630) 628-3365 or at.theatre88@gmail.com