Electric guitar, piano, drums and singing actors might give the illusion of a broadway show in New York.
Although a close replication, this is instead a student production of Andrew Lloyd Weber’s Tony Award-winning play “Jesus Christ Superstar,” put on by the University United Methodist Campus Ministry.
Lori Bade, a music professor at the University, brought the play to United Methodist pastor Shawn Anglim because she felt the timing was right.
“I’ve been wanting to do ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ for a few years now, but I never had the right group of people,” Bade said. “This year seemed like the right time because of the singers and personalities.”
Although admission is free, a “love offering” will be accepted to raise money for two charities: the Vocal Scholarship for students singing in the Chancel choir and the Wesley Foundation Alternative Spring Break, in which a group will travel to a Navajo Reservation in Kaibetoh, Ariz., to do basic home repairs for needy community members.
“The alternative spring break trips were initiated to give students an ‘alternative’ to what the mainstream culture says that spring break should be,” Anglim said.
The trip will benefit not only those who need work on their homes but also the parishioners involved.
“We’re going to serve these people but also be served by them spiritually,” said Matthew Rawle, who plays Jesus. “It will be interesting to get a view on the Native-American faith and their different views on life.”
The show gives a contemporary insight into the ancient story of Jesus Christ before crucifixion.
“Religiously, it shows the humanity of Jesus Christ and makes us aware that he struggled just like anybody else,” said Luke Fleming, who plays Annas.
Students say being involved in the play gives students a feeling of spiritual satisfaction that everyday college activities might not provide.
“This lasts beyond the social aspect of college,” Rawle said. “It’s a fellowship with people my own age. It’s a wonderful friendship and community.”
Laura Hopes, chorus member, said being involved in a campus organization allowed her to build relationships with people she normally would not meet.
“It brings people together,” Hopes said.
Still other students say getting involved in a campus organization and doing community philanthropy is good idea for all students.
“Community involvement in general is better for everyone,” said Ben Fahnders, who plays Caiaphas.