Workshop Theatre's interpretation of Jesus Christ Superstar, the Andrew Lloyd Webber-Tim Rice classic rock opera, played from May 7 through 27, with a 3 p.m. Sunday matinee on May 16, plus two additional shows on June 4 and 5.

The new Workshop production of the highly controversial musical of the early 70s pleased Superstar's most ardent admirers with the same mix of hard-driving rock tunes and wonderfully soulful ballads that have made it a classic. "Heaven On Their Minds," "Everything's Alright," "I Don't Know How To Love Him," "Gethsemane," and, of course, the title song, were as emotionally charged as they were 30 plus years ago.

Jesus Christ Superstar is a re-telling of the final seven days in the life of Jesus. The story is told from the perspectives of Jesus and Judas, starting just before the disciples' entrance into Jerusalem up through Jesus' crucifixion. This version of the biblical text attempted neither to confirm nor deny the divinity of Christ. Rather, it focused on the humanity of Jesus and how his humanity has affected the world.

We expected loud music and intensely spiritual moments. "But don't expect to find a nostalgic look at bygone hippy days or a re-creation of ancient Jerusalem in this production", said Director Scott Blanks before the show opened. "Our goal is to challenge audiences to look at the 'greatest story every told' from a 21st century perspective."

"Regardless of your religious beliefs, this is a story of an extraordinary man who led an exemplary life and paid the ultimate sacrifice for the betterment of mankind," Blanks says. The story is as powerful today as it was in biblical times and will continue to be just as relevant in the future.

Starring in the Workshop Theatre production were Timothy Michael Robertson as Jesus, Christopher Cockrell as Judas, Kristin Abbott as Mary Magdalene, Matthew DeGuire as Herod, Tyron McFarland as Pilate, and Walter Graham as Caiaphas, with a huge supporting cast. Musical Director Randy Moore and Choreographer Terrance Henderson completed the directing team. Linda Khoury produced, with dramaturgy by Arik Bergland.