CMHS to perform "Jesus Christ Superstar"

The curtain rises Thursday for the first preview performance of the “Jesus Christ Superstar” revival. 

And you don’t need to drive to New York to see the famous rock opera with Andrew Lloyd Webber's music and lyrics by Tim Rice.

Canon-McMillan High School students will perform the musical at the high school at 7 p.m. on Thursday through March 3. 

Starring in the production are (pictured from left) seniors Joseph Helinski in the role of Jesus and Ben Jones as Judas, along with junior Sarah Chelli, who will play Mary Magdalene. 

Faculty members responsible for the production include: Cindy Berg, director and producer; Maggie Sisson, music director; Mark Falvo, orchestra  director, and Rob Montini, technical director.

The musical provides a loose characterization of the Gospels’ account of the last week in the life of Jesus, ending with his crucifixion. Canon-McMillan’s production will minimize the religious overtones as well as the hippie references that were in the 1973 film adaptation, according to a release.

The CMHS production will be performed as a timeless story. Tickets cost $7 and will be available at the door.