Anticipation of biblical proportions

Jesus Christ Superstar kicks off a series of shows in Napier on Friday. Over half the tickets have already been sold.

The greatest story ever told is set to be performed in Napier this month, in the form of a rock opera.

Jesus Christ Superstar celebrates the final days of the messiah in the lead up to his crucifixion, as seen through the eyes of his betrayer, Judas.

Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's classic will be staged in the intimacy of the Tabard Theatre.

Volunteer organiser Sarah Eriksen said the audience will get close to the characters and emotions of the show, usually performed in larger theatres.

"It will bring a different dynamic to the show."

She said ticket sales had been on fire.

"We are well over 50 per cent of sales, so we are very happy."

Ms Eriksen said the popularity of the "original rock opera" and the cross-generational appeal had resulted in strong interest .

"It's a show that young people can enjoy, too. One of those shows you have to go and see."

She said audiences could expect something current, with a classic biblical flavour.

A four-metre crucifix will be the centrepiece of a "beautifully" designed set.

Ms Eriksen is one of more than 200 volunteers helping to put on the show.

The crew of experienced performers have been rehearsing since Christmas.

Rachel Griffiths will make her debut as a lead, taking on the role of Mary Magdalene.

Ms Griffiths said the thing that had made the show a wonderful experience was the cast.

"They are so amazing to act with and to bounce off.

It's been an incredible experience just getting to watch them at their craft and learn from what I see and feel."

Ms Griffiths said Mary had been a great character to sink her teeth into for a first leading role.

While not a big role, Mary anchored both Jesus and Judas, who tended to be emotionally charged.

"I needed to be independent yet vulnerable and I hope I have found this balance."

Ms Griffiths, a veterinarian, said it had been "pretty insane" balancing work and nights on call with rehearsals.

"I have had to see a few clients in some pretty funky rock make-up."

Jesus Christ Superstar is inspired by the Bible's account in the four gospels of the last week in the life of Jesus, beginning with his arrival in Jerusalem and ending with the crucifixion.

It is performed entirely in song with a 1970s musical feel. Numbers run the gamut from high-wailing rock anthems such as Judas' Heaven On Their Minds to more folksy-rock ballads such as Mary's I Don't Know How to Love Him.

- The shows will run every night except Mondays, from April 15 to May 7, at the Tabard Theatre, Coronation St, Ahuriri, Napier.

The Cast:

* Jesus: James McCaffrey

* Judas: Rick Behague

* Mary: Rachel Griffiths

* Caiaphus: Isaac Cox

* Annas: Laura Jeffares

* Pontius Pilate: Simeon Ria

* King Herod: Chris Atkinson