"Jesus Christ Superstar"

June 17, 2015 — About five minutes into the Winnipesaukee Playhouse's opening night performance of "Jesus Christ Superstar," an ear-splitting fire alarm went off, apparently caused by a haze effect which was part of the show, and everyone, audience and players, was ordered to evacuate the theatre. Ushers quickly explained there was no fire, so the evacuation was calm and orderly, although many were holding their ears against the almost painfully loud alarm.

We all waited outside about fifteen minutes for the fire department to confirm what we all knew, there was no fire, then filed back in. The interruption didn't throw the players off their game one bit. They smoothly picked up where they left off as though nothing happened, a tribute to their professionalism.

The Winnipesaukee Playhouse is located above Lake Winnipesaukee in the picturesque town of Meredith, New Hampshire. This production of the Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice musical, first staged in the '70s and updated to 21st Century attire and sensibilities, but with all the great music and lyrics unchanged, was directed by Neil Pankhurst. At first, I found the volume uncomfortably loud, but we must remember "Superstar" is first and foremost a rock concert, and loudness is expected. I became accustomed to it.

This was an excellent production. I've stressed before I have no qualifications to be a critic, so I call my comments "observations" rather than a review. The important thing is that I know what I like, and I really liked this show. The singing was superb, notably by Anthony Nuccio as Judas, John Wilkenning as Jesus and Rebecca Tucker as Mary Magdalene. They gave us chills with the power of their voices. I loved Tucker's rendition of "I Don't Know How To Love Him." The entire large cast was excellent. There were great dance numbers choreographed by Tara Little, with music directed by Judy Hayward, all on an impressive set designed by Neil Pankhurst, Andrew Stuart and Katrina Paul.

The resounding finale of this play, when everything is done right, has a powerful and profound effect on the audience, and the Winnipesaukee Playhouse has done everything right. The cast earned a standing ovation at the end. The play runs through June 27.