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This musical was dubbed a rock opera when it was first presented 30 years ago. Since then it has become a mainstay of the American Musical Theater. This classic work was written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, the team that wrote Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Evita. Separately these two artists have produced works such as The Phantom of the Opera, Cars, Sunset Boulevard, and The Lion King. Jesus Christ Superstar is the production that catapulted them to fame in the early 1970s. This moving musical retells the story of Christ's final seven days on earth leading up to his crucifixion It is told in a way that is simple and allows the audience to come to a deeper understanding of both Christ as man, and as a divine sacrifice. In bringing Christ to life on the stage, Webber and Rice reinvigorate the tenets of Jesus' teachings of love and sacrifice for those human beings who surround one's life. The substance of Christ's message is personified in this wonderfully original musical.

FPT's production is directed by Thom Hofrichter, musical direction by Randy Romero, choreography by Brenda Saban, set design by Ron Badour, and costume design by Virginia Badour.

It'll be worth the price of admission just to see how we get all these people on the FPT stage!

Jesus Christ Superstar: A Theological Reflection
by Reverend Robin Lyn VaIdez, Associate Pastor, First Presbyterian Church

The life of the Christian person can be described in three words: struggle, joy, and sacrifice. The struggle comes each and every day when we wake up and meet the day with all of its joy, laughter, confusion, and temptation. The joy surprises us as we are transformed by those that love us, life situations that ask for our best, and the love of a God who meets us and welcomes us as we are. The sacrifice is made evident in each and every moment that we are torn between what we want for ourselves and what God's plan reveals to us as we move along the road of our ongoing faith journey.

The road to the cross is one of struggle and hope. Jesus Christ Superstar meets us in our sometimes comfortable, non-threatening surroundings and re-introduces us to some of the most fascinating and challenging characters the world has ever known. The musical portrays Christ as human -- a man who struggles with his destiny, his desire, and God's ultimate will. He is surrounded by a group of friends -- devoted and loyal followers who have committed themselves to doing the work of Jesus and spreading the good news those they meet. Amidst this group of faithful followers is another man known to us as Judas. Not only is he devoted to Jesus, but he has a close relationship with him and considers him a dear and trusted friend. As happens to most humans somewhere along the line, the relationship is broken and Judas makes very intentional decisions and betrays Jesus Christ. The spiral begins, the events take place and we are quickly reminded of the amazing and miraculous sacrifice that Christ makes for each and for all.

This is very clearly Jesus' story. It is illustrated in a form and a fashion that we still need to hear today. Without being aware at times, we are asked to make our own sacrifices each and every day. There are times as well, when we find ourselves sacrificing that which is most precious to us and not really understanding why. Nevertheless, the power of the gospel, the promise of new life in Christ, and the assurance of the resurrection speaks to us with a depth and transforming power that can move even the most skeptical human being. The song says it best: "Can We Start Again?" Can we sacrifice and still be whole? Can we know the cost and willingly give ourselves? Can we love so deeply and welcome so genuinely that we change one's life? Christ would say, "Yes!" and then he would lay down his life... again. What a wonderful gift!

CAST BIOS

Bob Ahlersmeyer (Thaddeus/dancer/ensemble) is appearing in his fourth FPT show. He is a communications major at IPFW, and he is grateful for such a wonderful and supportive family. Bob is ecstatic about sharing the stage with his beautiful girlfriend, Eileen. Good luck, sweety!

William David Andrews (High Priest) debuted at FPT in Ruddigore. He has also performed with Indiana-Purdue Theatre, Civic Theatre, Bower North Productions, Youtheatre and Arena Dinner Theatre. This one's for mom, (again).

Gerald Belville (High Priest) has performed in several shows since moving to Fort Wayne five years ago. They include Forever Plaid and Arsenic and Old Lace at Grey Lite, Guys and Dolls at Civic Theatre, Ruddigore at FPT, Meet Me in St Louis at Arena Theatre. He is pleased and grateful to Thom for casting him in JC Superstar.

Sara Black (Tormentor/dancer/ensemble) is an award-winning Fort Wayne dancer and choreographer who has been involved in local theatre for 15 years. She is making her FPT debut with this production.

Steve Black (Caiaphas) is a free-lance actor, singer, voice talent and George Washington impersonator. He has acted in plays at IPFW, Fort Wayne Civic (five Anthony awards), FPT, Honolulu Community Theater and Hawaii's Proscenium Theater Guild. He is a proud resident of Fort Wayne's urban southwest side.

Michelle Bollman (the faithful/ensemble) is making her second appearance on the FPT stage. Previously, she was the color purple in Schoolhouse Rock and worked as stage manager for Autumn Garden She also appeared in the Civic production of Guys and Dolls. She is a Spanish teacher at Canterbury School and would like to thank her parents and amigos for their support.

Tracey Buckmaster (doo-wop girl/ensemble) was last seen on this stage as a bridesmaid in Ruddigore. She has also done numerous shows at the Civic where she recently played the role of Martha Dobie in The Chilaren's Hour. Other theatre experiences include Nunsense at Grey Lite and Whorehouse at Arena. Tracey would like to thank Bev, David, and Jen for all their love.

Eileen Claypool (ensemble) is making her FPT debut in JCS. She is a communications major at IPFW and is also a member of the university choir. She is excited to be on stage again with her boyfriend, Bob, and wants to thank him for everything he brings to her life.

Angie Craft (Tormentor/dancer/ensemble) makes her FPT debut in JCS. She was last seen in Arena Dinner Theater's production of Cabaret Angie studies dance at Fort Wayne Ballet where she recently appeared in The Nutcracker. She also choreographs ELS. show choirs and musicals. Currently, she's staging Hello, Dolly!

Jeff Craft (Roman Guard) made his theatrical debut two years ago in Conversations With My Father at FPT. He is happier than anyone can know to return to the stage at FPT, considering he spent about 18 months of those past two years off his feet due to a serious medical problem with his back. So, it is really great to be back!

Julie Donnell (ensemble) is well known to Fort Wayne audiences for such roles as Sister Mary Amnesia in Nunsense and Marian the librarian in The Music Man. Most recently at FPT, she played Mad Margaret in Ruddigore. She is a professional musician and maintains a thriving voice studio.

Becky Gall (Tormentor/dancer/ensemble) was last seen as Anna Smith in Meet Me In St Louis at Arena Dinner Theatre. Other credits: Guys and Dolls, Joseph, and Barnum at the Civic Theatre. She also appeared in the Gershwin Gala at the Embassy Theatre. Becky directs "Mimetime," a Christian youth ministry with her husband David.

Andrew Gingrich (Judas) last appeared on FPT's stage as Oswald Alving in Ghosts. Andy has over 20 years of acting experience at different theaters in Fort Wayne and Ball State University. He is 'cranked' to rock as Judas.

John Gingrich (Peter) is making his debut at FPT and is thrilled to be working with his brother Andrew. He has appeared in Oklahoma and The Music Man at Civic and is also a master technician there. John's day job is network support specialist at Park Center keeping computers online.

Julia Ann Goodall (the faithful/do-wop girl/ensemble) is a newcomer to Fort Wayne. She is pastor at Grace St. John's United Church of Christ. Before entering seminary, Julia was quite active in theater. Her favorite roles include Golde in Fiddler On The Roof and Mrs. Allen in Dark of The Moon. Julia would like to thank the directors and cast for such a wonderful welcome as she makes her debut on the FPT stage.

Brian Goshorn (John/ensemble) is making his FPT debut. Last year, he was a singer/dancer in the Homestead H. S. show choir. Currently at IPFW, he is majoring in music, concentrating on classical guitar, and was involved with University Singers last semester. Also, as a lead guitarist and vocalist, he has performed in rock bands. Brian thanks his family and friends for their love and support.

Randy Oswalt (Roman Guard/assistant stage manager) returns to FPT for his third show as an actor. Previous credits include Our Town and Rip Van Winkle. Randy also helped out backstage with Agnes of God. If you love him as the tough guy in this show, come see him as another tough guy in Pippin, which runs at Harding H.S. the week after JCS closes.

Howard Ellis Powers (Phillip/ensemble) began his theatre career 15 years ago at his high school near Fargo, North Dakota. Credits include: The King and I, Wonderful Tennessee, and One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest. Howard's hobbies include learning to play the bass guitar, chicken shearing, and perfecting his imitation of the love call of the Tibetan yak. He dedicates JCS to his grandfather, Ellis Powers, who played an important part in the development of Howard's sense of absurd humor.

Bill Schmitt (Thomas/ensemble) returns to theater after many years, and JCS is his second appearance in Fort Wayne. He appeared in many high school productions, and later was no stranger on stage at the Royal Off the Square Theater, Brownstown, Indiana. Productions include Mid-SummerNight's Dream, You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown, The King and I, Of Thee I Sing, and The Sunshine Boys. Bill is plant manager for No Sag Spring Company in KendalIville.

Michael Todd Harris (Jesus) has been seen frequently in the local theater scene. In addition to acting he has also done set designer for The Autumn Garden and Three Tall Women at FPT. He would like to thank his parents, Mall, and Kilee for all their love and support; and also Thom for taking a big chance and giving him the opportunity and great privilege to portray Jesus. He says, "I hope in the Jesus I portray, people will see some of the passion and love for the Jesus I know in my personal life."

Jeffrey Steven Kreischer (James/dancer/ensemble) is making his debut at EPT with his role as an apostle and a dancer. His last role was John Truit in Meet Me in St. Louis at Arena Dinner Theatre and he hopes to continue to perform for the community.

Georgeanna Nehrig (the faithful/do-wop girl/ensemble) is thrilled to be part of this cast having last been seen in FPT's Autumn Garden this past fall. She dedicates this show to the superstars in her life, Brian, Miranda, Schuyler, and Mom for all the years of your support of this wacky habit of hers. She loves you all.

Sharon V. Nelson (ensemble) is making her debut at FPT and is thrilled to be a part of it. She is probably most recognized for either the role of Sarah Brown in the Civic Theatre's production of Guys and Dolls, or the role of Karen Wright in The Children's Hour. Other credits include Nunsense, Annie, Oliver, and West Side Story. Sharon extends her love and thanks to her husband, Mark, for his continuous support.

Curtis Shaw (Simon Zealotes/ensemble) is making his FPT debut, but is no stranger to Fort Wayne theatre. He has been in five shows at the Fort Wayne Civic Theatre, including Man of La Mancha, Joseph '94 and '96, Music Man, and most recently Guys and Dolls.

Tony Sirk (Bartholomew/dancer/ensemble) was last seen in Anything Goes at the Pulse Opera House. Recent shows include Bye Bye Birdie and Some Enchanted Evening at the Pulse Opera House.

Ron Smith (Annas) is making his debut at FPT. He got his first bite of theatre as a member of the harmonizing "School Board" in Civic's The Musk Man for which he won an Anthony Award. He was last seen as Alonzo Smith in Meet Me in St Louis at Arena. Ron's favorite role was the Governor in Best Little Whorehouse in Texas at Arena.

Jim Turcovsky (Andrew/ensemble) appears on stage for the first time since high school. He has been a producer/director/writer for several TV markets and now is Production Manager at WPTA-TV (21 Alive). He is the father of Danielle and Michael, who attend Portage Middle School. He says, "Being in Superstar is a thrill of a lifetime, and a great opportunity to work with Thom, Randy, Brenda, and a very talented, fun cast!"

Dale Vandegriff (Pontius Pilate) is vice president of Vandegriff & Associates, a Group Four Company. Last summer Dale hit the boards for the first time ever in Civic's production of Camelot. Dale thanks his friends in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton choir for their support; and his wife, Jean, and children, Daniel and Grace, for their love; and God, for blessing him with a part in this wonderful story.

Jan Venderly (Mary Magdalene) returns to FPT after appearing in Diaries of Adam and Eve last winter. She was also Emma in Tintypes three seasons ago. At Arena Dinner Theater, Jan has played her real sister's on-stage sister in Odd Couple and her real husband's on-stage wife in George Washington Slept Here. Jan has enjoyed various roles at Civic including Liza Moriarty in Sherlock's Last Cast, Maggie in Lend Me a Tenor, Mary Jane Wilkes in Big River, and one of the gals in Jerry's Girls. Jan teaches journalism at New Haven High School. Her leisure time is spent reading, traveling and hanging out with her hubby, Ed.

Kirby A. Volz (Herod) returns to FPT, having last played the part of Dr. Gibbs in Our Town. Other credits include Gatch in How To Succeed... at IPFW, and as Amos Hart in Chicago at Arena. Kirby teaches speech/theatre at South Side H.S. He likes I.U. basketball, traveling, and coaching his multi-award winning speech team. He dedicates this show to his parents.

Mark A. Walus (James/ensemble) is making his FPT debut. He is married to a wonderful lady, Joyce, and they have a two-year old daughter, Emily Elizabeth. They worship at Leo United Methodist Church. He works at International Wire. He says, "Always hoped that I'd be an apostle."

Thomas Young (Matthew/ensemble) may be a familiar face to you from his co-hosting duties during WFWA-TV 39's pledge drives. A Fort Wayne native, Tom is a computer programmer/administrator for IBM. In addition to theater, Tom enjoys music, golf, and going to Gold's Gym. This is Tom's first theater experience since high school (See How They Run), but he promises it won't be his last.

PRODUCTION STAFF BIOS

Thom Hofrichter (director/lighting designer) celebrated his two-year anniversary as Minister of Drama at FPT on January 1. He is proud of the work that has been produced here in that time and appreciates the countless volunteers who make it possible to create meaningful work in this wonderful theater space. The last time Thom did Superstar it was as an actor 20 years ago and he still had his hair (well, most of it).

Randy Romero (musical direction) is a Fort Wayne native who works in private practice as a Music Therapist, workshop presenter, and vocal instructor. He has performed roles at both FPT and the Civic Theatre, where last summer he also served as the musical director for Showbiz Kidz. Randy has also directed music programs for the Ft. Wayne Developmental Center and ARC of Allen County.

Brenda Saban (choreographer), a grad of Hope College, who teaches dance at Fort Wayne Dance Collective and teaches cello at Zion Lutheran Academy, FWCS and Suzuki Talent Education. She has enjoyed working on her second production with Thom, the first being last May's Ruddigore. Next year, she will start her master's work in Dance History. Her free time is spent playing with her husband, Dan.

Ron Badour (set design) puts yet another design credit on his resume with his seventh design at FPT in the last 3 years. Ron, with his wife Virginia, runs Encore Productions. In his spare time he works at General Motors.

Virginia Badour (costume design) is the resident costumer at FPT. She has done the designs for The Autumn Garden, Rip Van Winkle, Ruddigore and Tartuffe, just to name a few. Virginia works full time and is very close to completing her degree in marketing at IPFW.

Phyllis Schnieb (stage manager/light board) has been working productions at FPT for two years. She has stage managed and run lights for Our Town, Three Tall Women, The Last of the Red Hot Lovers, and Rip Van Winkle. She is excited about working on this wonderful musical.

Susie Reed (stage manager) has worked on nearly every production FPT has done in the last two years. She especially loves doing wigs.

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