Riverside Center for the Performing Arts presents Jesus Christ Superstar, the timeless rock opera from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. Directed by Patrick A’Hearn with musical direction by Carson Eubank, this production is full of powerhouse performances, and when paired with gorgeous and creative technical elements, the result is a real triumph!
Scenic Designer Christian Fleming begins the story in a dated, wood-paneled recording studio. This is a nod to the original concept recording album that inspired the rock opera, and while it’s a bold choice, I believe that it pays off — this is a fantastical story, and beginning it in the modern era gives it a humble relatability while also highlighting the fact that the music is its focal point. This setting eventually gives way to the aged, cracked stone walls of ancient Jerusalem, where Lighting Designer Weston Corey and Sound Designer Cheyenne Tenda use some real awe-inspiring effects. Intricate spotlighting and shadow work coupled with fog effects create a magical, mystical atmosphere that leaves a deep impression. As someone who personally grew up “behind the scenes” in stage crew, the technical elements of this show really blew me away — this production is a techie’s dream come true!
The sung-through opera tells the story of the last days of Jesus of Nazareth (Kevin Cleary). Interestingly, much of the story is told through the viewpoint of Judas Iscariot (Anthony Nuccio), who begins to worry that the Roman Empire is threatened by Jesus and his apostles in the number “Heaven on Their Minds.” He admonishes Jesus for his questionable relationship with Mary Magdalene (Kiley Ernest), and the resulting disagreement is shown in one of the more memorable numbers, “What’s the Buzz.” Caiaphas, the High Priest of Isreal (Anthony Williams), echoes Judas’ concerns about the Romans and decides that Jesus must be executed in the number “This Jesus Must Die.” Throughout these trials, Jesus remains steadfast in his beliefs and convictions, even stubbornly so, and voices his frustration with his apostles in the number “The Last Supper.”
What follows is, of course, the story of Jesus’ arrest and ultimate crucifixion sung through rock music. While the plot is intriguing, Riverside’s attention and resources focus mainly on the music itself. Carson Eubank conducts a fantastic live orchestra, with rich vocals that show a lot of range, especially from Kevin Cleary and Anthony Nuccio, who both nail the high “wail” pitch that’s often associated with rock singers. Standout musical numbers include Mary’s powerful rendition of “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” and the upbeat “King Herod’s Song,” sung by Kathy Halenda and showcasing excellent ensemble choreography by Stephanie Wood. “Judas’ Death” is transfixing and haunting, and the number “Superstar” is a real spectacle!
Riverside Center for the Performing Arts’ production of Jesus Christ Superstar is masterfully done and does a fantastic job of telling the ultimate story of love, betrayal, and redemption. Tickets are selling out fast for this one, so grab a pair while you can!
Running Time: Two hours, including one 15-minute intermission.
Jesus Christ Superstar plays through April 27, 2025, at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts, 95 Riverside Parkway, Fredericksburg, VA. Tickets ($65–$82) are available online or through the box office 540-370-4300, open from 10 am to 6 pm, Mon.-Wed.; 10 am to 7:30 pm, Thu.-Fri; 12 pm to 7:30 pm, Sat.; 12 pm to 3 pm, Sun. Discounted senior & group rates are available (for details, click here).
Evening performances start at 7:30pm with dinner service beginning at 5:30pm on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Matinee performances start at 1:30pm with meal service beginning at 11:30am on Wednesday and 3:00pm on Sunday with dinner service beginning at 1:00pm.
Adult Dinner & Show – $82 (plus applicable taxes)
Seniors (65+) Dinner & Show – $77 (plus applicable taxes)
Children (3-17) Dinner & Show – $70 (plus applicable taxes)
Adult Show Only – $65
Seniors (65+) Show Only – $60
Children (3-17) Show Only – $55
There will be a $5.00 online processing fee added per ticket.
Cast, creative, and crew credits are in the online program here.
COVID Safety: Patrons are not required to be masked in the facility; but if patrons want to wear a mask, they are welcome to.
Jesus Christ Superstar
Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Lyrics by Tim Rice
