The second coming… to the stage, “Jesus Christ Superstar.” Composed of 22 numbers, “Jesus Christ Superstar” is directed by theatre professor David Crawford, who aims to spread his love for the musical.
“This is not just a musical, it is a rock opera,” Crawford said.
With electrifying music being the main focal point, this rock opera delivers the final week of Jesus Christ through dancing and singing. The show takes off on Feb.19 and runs through Feb. 22 at 7:30 p.m.
The box office opens Feb. 12 in the Rogers Palmer Performing Arts Center. Tyler Junior College students get in for free with an I.D. It is $5 for non-TJC students, $10 for adults and non-students, and $5 for military and seniors.
From miracles to musical numbers, the messiah takes center stage.
“The idea of opera being is that like a normal musical, you will have speaking and you will have singing and you will have the dancing.It continues from one number to another number to another number,” Crawford said.
The final week explores the tension between Jesus and Judas, as well as Jesus’ humanity. The rock opera is composed of symbolic actions by combining dance and symbolism to convey the message of sacrifice for salvation.
“It is the point of view of Judas Iscariot looking on his relationship and the week of that- the last week that Jesus spent on Earth, and it was just that one week, and that’s what the entire play deals with,” Crawford said. “Based on the book of Matthew, it is also a large part the relationship between Jesus and Judas.”
Crawford is putting on his last production for TJC after 49 years of dedication. “This is the last one. This is my swan song,” Crawford said.
According to student opinions, Crawford is a pillar in the theatre department. His passion and dedication to his work inspires many of his students, whether that be past, present or future students.
For more information about “Jesus Christ Superstar,” visit tjc.edu/theatre.