Chesterfield Operatic Society to stage Jesus Christ Superstar

Members of Chesterfield Operatic Society have taken up the challenge of Andrew Lloyd Webber's stunning biblical epic, Jesus Christ Superstar, following a successful production of Evita last year.

Described by director Phil Simcox as “a very clever musical and one of Webber’s best written shows,” Superstar provided a challenge from the outset - finding enough men for all the roles.

Among the newcomers is 35-year-old Andy Quinn, who has previously played Herod and Jesus but is thrilled to be playing Judas.

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“I’ve wanted to play Judas since I saw the show in the West End,” said Andy, a veteran of many shows with other societies.

“I prefer Judas, even though it is vocally higher, so providing I hit the notes I find it more comfortable, where with Jesus there is a lot of motion with the music and you’ve got to control yourself as you go up and down. Judas is pure aggression.”

Jesus is being played by another new arrival to the society, Craig Arme, 30, who sang the role in a school concert version.

“The biggest challenge of playing Jesus is portraying the man rather than the Son of God, to make him more human,” said Craig. “You need to portray the right emotions, including emotionally sad, because he is going to be betrayed by someone he considered a friend.”

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Returning to a lead role after playing Maria in The Sound of Music on her debut with the society in 2013 is Georgii Bailey as Mary. Other principal roles are being taken by Davron Hicks (Pilate), Andrew Davie (Herod), Danny Winson (Caiaphas) and Neil Yewman (Annas).

Director Phil Simcox played the role of Herod in 1996 and Judas in 2000. Musical director is Jon Davies and the choreographer is Paula Wilson.

Jesus Christ Superstar runs at the Pomegranate Theatre, Chesterfield, from April 26 to 30. Performances are at 7.15pm with a Saturday matinee at 2.15pm.

Tickets are priced at £16.50 and £12.50. To book or for further details, contact 01246 345222 or visit www.chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk