PORTLAND — Tophat Productions presents a one-man toy theater production of “Jesus Christ Superstar” at Mayo Street Arts at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 3.
Tophat Productions returns to the miniature stage with its one-man toy theater production of the powerful rock opera, “Jesus Christ Superstar”, the epic score that put Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice on top of the pop charts.
This secular retelling follows the final week in the life of Jesus as seen through the eyes of the one who betrayed him, Judas Iscariot. This show includes such classic hits as “Heaven On Their Minds,” “Everything’s Alright,” “I Don’t Know How To Love Him,” “Gethsemane,” and the titular “Superstar.” Live vocals in combination with an action figure cast bring this rock opera masterpiece to life as never before.
The inspiration for the production’s premiere in 1971 came from a Bob Dylan lyric, “Did Judas Iscariot have God on his side?” which fascinated the amazing lyricist, Tim Rice. “Jesus Christ Superstar” is not without its fair share of controversies. It challenged traditional religious narratives by not including the resurrection. The portrayal of Jesus was more humanized, making him capable of feeling all human emotions. The show makes Judas more sympathetic while making him the central narrator. And simply that it was a biblical story set to a rock score. Despite all of this, it became a worldwide success and popularized the rock opera genre.
Tophat Productions’ founder and principal artist David Worobec is a classically-trained opera singer and a talented pianist. A graduate of the Boston Conservatory, Worobec has performed in a wide range of settings and ensembles. He has an exceptional vocal range, and has trained across a broad spectrum of musical genres. His repertoire includes opera, showtunes, standards and more.
Worobec is also Maine’s premier expert in miniature theater productions, and has staged hundreds of full stage shows in miniature form, complete with advanced lighting, stage sets, a miniature cast and props and recorded orchestral accompaniment. His work with miniature theater has been widely featured in print publications and video documentaries alike.
Mayo Street Arts is a welcoming community arts center in the heart of Portland’s Kennedy Park neighborhood. The organization’s building serves as a performance venue, gallery, and gathering space, and offers affordable studios and rehearsal space for artists. Mayo Street Arts’ programming embraces variety, with a particular focus on puppetry and folk music and dance.
Tickets to see Tophat Productions’ “Jesus Christ Superstar” at Mayo Street Arts are available for $20 in advance, $25 at the door and $30 for preferred seating. Pay-what-you-can options are available to support accessibility. Visit www.mayostreetarts.org for ticket links and more information.
