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REVIEW Camelot Theatre's 'Jesus Christ Superstar' still resonates Camelot production rocks despite odd choice of setting Comment By Angela Decker for the Mail Tribune MailTribune.com By Angela Decker for the Mail Tribune Posted Jun. 27, 2015 at 5:44 PM By Angela Decker for the Mail Tribune Posted Jun. 27, 2015 at 5:44 PM » Social News In 1971, “Jesus Christ Superstar” rocked the musical theater world and wowed audiences with its fresh take on the last seven days in the life of Christ as seen from the viewpoint of Judas Iscariot, Jesus’ disciple and, ultimately, his betrayer. With music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, the play’s story of our human need for something or someone to believe in still resonates. Camelot Theatre’s production of the rock opera sets the story in post-apocalyptic Rogue Valley. Think “Mad Max,” but in and around Ashland, with Jesus and rock music. The dystopian concept works for the most part, though it doesn’t really enhance the story. Directed by Livia Genise, Camelot’s artistic director, the play opens with a multimedia montage of real news stories about climate change, disease outbreaks and international tensions that escalate into a nuclear apocalypse. The aftermath is a dark, creepy world where political leaders are still shortsighted and controlling, and ordinary citizens are desperate for someone to believe in. Erik Connelly plays a subdued Jesus who seems both overwhelmed by his needy followers and baffled by his own fame. Judas, played by David King-Gabriel is frustrated with Jesus and the direction of his leadership. Their disagreement eventually leads to mutual destruction. King-Gabriel has an expressive rock-style voice and energetic presence, and does a fine job showing his internal conflict over Christ and his choices. Kendra Taylor is also compelling as a sweet-voiced, vulnerable Mary Magdalene responding to Christ’s waning morale and her growing love for him. Nathan Monks is a standout, both for his strong singing and his convincing portrayal of the menacing yet sympathetic Pontius Pilate. The large ensemble cast is terrifically tight and energetic. “Jesus Christ Superstar” has a lot of long, intense songs and the cast is tireless under the fast-paced choreography by Audrey Flint and Rebecca Campbell and musical direction by Michael Wing. While the post-apocalyptic set works well, especially with designer Barbara Henson’s innovative costumes, the insistence that the story is taking place in the Rogue Valley, in locations such as Lithia Park, the Rogue Valley Manor and the Talent Skate Park, was more distracting than meaningful. For 70’s music lovers, the play features some legendary hits, including “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” “Everything’s Alright” and “Superstar.” The show runs through Aug. 2. A pay-what-you-can performance will be offered Wednesday, July 1. Show times are at 8 p.m., Wednesday through Friday, July 1-3, and Thursdays through Saturdays, July 9-11, July 16-18, July 23-25 and July 30 through Aug. 1. Shows are set for 8 p.m. Mondays, July 6, 13, 20 and 27. Matinee performances start at 2 p.m. Sundays, June 28, July 5, 12, 19 and 26 and Aug. 2. Tickets cost $29, $27 for students and seniors (except for Sunday matinees), and can be purchased at the box office, online at www.camelottheatre.org or by calling 541-535-5250. Angela Decker is a freelance writer in Ashland and can be reached at [email protected]. By Angela Decker for the Mail Tribune MailTribune.com By Angela Decker for the Mail Tribune Posted Jun. 27, 2015 at 5:44 PM » Comment or view comments Reader Reaction » STAY INFORMED Email NewsLetter Sign Up Today Sign up for our newsletter and have the top headlines from your community delivered right to your inbox. Southern Oregon Directory Featured Businesses Loading... 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