Stage 212 in La Salle presents “Jesus Christ Superstar”

Stage 212 takes the stage – the actual stage – after a long absence, with its summer 2021 production of “Jesus Christ Superstar,” the rock opera by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Loosely based on the Gospel’s account of the last week of Jesus’s life, “Superstar” explores the psychology of the characters, focusing on Judas in particular. Contemporary attitudes, sensibilities, and slang pervade the rock lyrics, and ironic allusions to modern life are scattered throughout.

Featured in the cast are Jake Jakielski as Jesus, Mark Fulkerson as Judas, Ashley Hurst as Mary, Kevin Alleman as Pilate, Mark Nowakowski as Caiaphas, Megan Cullinan as Annas, Nora Maier as Peter, Bob Philip as Simon and Dan McKenzie as Herod.

Also featured in a variety of ensemble roles are Isaac Alvarado, Serena Armstrong, Kylie Atkins, Andrew Beer, Emily Boes, Claire Brousseau, Emma Frost, Jon Graham, Makayla Heller, Andrea Imsland, Kelly Johnson, Mike Maier, Robert Malerk, Melanie Maskel, PJ Olsen, Hanna Pohar, Courtney Ries, Reid Rynke, Adrian Silva, Zoe Starkey, Jim Struck, Griffin Tabor, Alexis Trammel and Krysten Walowski.

Production staff includes director/choreographer/costumer Reid Tomasson, producer/costumer Traci Tomasson, music director Megan Cullinan, stage manager Perla Escatel, choreographer Hanna Pohar, set designer/construction coordinator Cory Tomasson, sound coordinator Andrew Paden, lighting coordinator Yvette Lucas, and stage crew Ella Johns, Haevin Britt, Allesyn Wilke and Nick Hancock.

“Jesus Christ Superstar” will be presented July 26-31 and Aug. 1 (two performances) at Stage 212, 700 First St., La Salle. Performances will be indoors, not outdoors as previously advertised. All performances begin at 6:30 p.m. except the Sunday matinee, which begins at 2 p.m.

Tickets are available to the general public for $20 each, and may be purchased by visiting the box office 4 to 6 p.m. Monday 4 to 6 p.m. and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday or by calling 815-224-3025 during the same hours. Tickets may also be purchased online by visiting stage212.org. A limited number of socially distanced seats are available for unvaccinated patrons by calling the box office. Stage 212 will be following IDPH guidelines for Phase 5 for all performances.

“Jesus Christ Superstar” features sensitive material and intense sequences, including physical violence. It is recommended for ages 12 and up. “Jesus Christ Superstar” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of The Really Useful Group. www.concordtheatricals.com