Review by Steven Maisonet 

When it comes to theater productions, there are often elements that can make or break a show. Typically, lighting, technical aspects, choreography, and acting are key factors that audience members—both theater novices and enthusiasts—discuss during intermission or on their way home after the show. Niagara Falls Open Door Productions‘ production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ Superstar hit the mark on all of these elements. It delivered an enriched vision of the classic tale, showcasing Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s popular Broadway show, from the costuming to the stellar vocal quality of the actors to the choreographed movement.

Niagara Falls, a historical landmark in the greater Western New York area and home to the unofficial Eighth Wonder of the World, is also home to the Grand Theater at the Niagara Arts and Cultural Center, a multiuse space that houses Open Door Productions, a locally based theater company founded by Meagan Millar and TJ Wilcox, two passionate theater educators and mentors based in Niagara Falls, NY. The company was born out of their desire to create more opportunities for local students to become involved in theater. With the vision of bridging the gap between student actors and professional performers, they have cultivated a community theater experience that fosters collaboration, mentorship, and personal growth. Open Door Productions provides an environment where actors of all ages and experience levels can come together to learn from each other while putting on high-quality productions.

This season, the theater has tackled the rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar, loosely based on the Gospel accounts of the Passion. Directed by co-founder Meagan Millar, this show promises a memorable night out. Millar’s visionary direction crafted a production of versatility and talent, showcasing the actors’ unique personalities and phenomenal musical theater skills. It is no easy feat to direct a cast of actors with such varied backgrounds and talents, yet Millar delivered a splendid performance that demonstrated expertise and skill, moving beyond the community theater perspective and solidifying this show as professional-level theater, comparable to other local “professional” venues. With the help of costuming and wardrobe, the show creates an authentic retelling of the Gospel.

Choreographed by Marissa Chapman, the show delivers both prompted musical scenes and integral dance coordination to complement the musical elements of the production. Notable moments that stood out included ensemble-led dance scenes that showcased choreography with cohesion and unity, ensuring no actors lagged behind and allowing the story to unfold as a musical masterpiece.

The show utilized all aspects of the space available, as performers carried on with their characters both on and off stage, coming down the aisles during various scenes. Be sure to arrive promptly to avoid any potential traffic disruptions during the show’s blocking. The production also features prophetic quotes spotlighted throughout the performance, including one of the most remarkable moments: Peter’s betrayal of Jesus. The spotlight shone on the statement, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times,” eliciting an emotional response from actor Milo Brown, who played Peter, ideally showcasing their talent during such a poignant moment of betrayal.

In terms of technical elements, the show incorporates dimmed lighting to highlight the spiral of guilt and shame the characters experience. This was highlighted by technical director Eugene Olear and Mike Kurilovitch. Although visually strenuous for those with light sensitivity, the show frequently uses blackout transitional scenes, with prompt lights illuminating new scenes. This is something to be mindful of for audience members with photophobia. Otherwise, the technical elements—such as red floods used to symbolize the sinful actions of betrayal—add depth to the production. For instance, Judas (Lily Seradas) has a fiery scene in Act 2, symbolizing the consequences of betrayal, created using stage effects. Stage coordination and fight choreography by Millar were also well-executed, increasing the show’s intensity, especially during the moment in Act 2 when Jesus is punished by a Roman guard (Zakari Gilmer), who delivers 39 lashes. This scene, though tense, elicited powerful emotional responses from the audience.

The show’s overall production was strong, with exceptional acting. TJ Wilcox, co-founder of the company, played Jesus Christ and delivered a rich, rock-operatic tenor performance that showcased both acting and musicality. Wilcox’s emotional delivery in intense scenes, combined with masterful stage makeup, elevated the importance of the crucifixion and Jesus’s punishment. Other standout performances included Lily Seradas as Judas, who balanced the character’s struggles with loyalty and personal strife, giving a heartfelt portrayal that highlighted her theatrical expertise. Another resonating performance came from Sophia Bayrón, who played Mary. Bayrón stunned the audience with her beautiful singing and devoted performance, bringing the show to its emotional core.

Undoubtedly, the show relied heavily on the ensemble, and the principal cast members also had their moments in the spotlight. The apostles showcased individual personalities and gave sensational performances, conveying passion and skill. Jaydn Langer, who played the serpent, ominously shifted in and out of the stage, foreshadowing the demise of certain characters. Allie Clark (Annas) and Bob Moore (Caiaphas) provided contrasting seriousness with their portrayal of the high priests, feeding off each other’s energy as they interacted with Seradas’ Judas. On a note about costuming, these two characters stood out with their visually appealing outfits. Clark’s rhinestone-studded costume drew attention, making these characters more memorable despite their antagonistic roles.

Another character who shone with independence was Pilate, played by Leela Masters. Pilate foresees the crucifixion of Jesus and delivers a moment of rest between a heavy ensemble number and a transition to the next scene. Herod, played by Philip Buffone, added determination and strength to the production, bringing the show closer to its conclusion. Lastly, Aria Wittcop delivered a heartfelt and compelling portrayal of Simon, capturing the character’s internal struggle and devotion with remarkable depth and sincerity.

In conclusion, the show was masterfully blocked and coordinated. Musical decisions were strong and present, though minor audio mishaps occurred—though not the fault of the production. The space, which can be challenging acoustically, presented difficulties, but the actors powered through and delivered exceptional performances. The ensemble cast, including Matthew Bielanin, Cathie Puelo, Jazlyn Carson, Samantha Coleman, Julie Dooer, Jadyn Langer, Arwen Marple, Josiah Marple, Justin Marple, Shelby Marple, Dominic Morinello, Katherine Morock, Dominic Patti, and Amaya Printup, all brought vibrancy and energy to the stage, making this production an enjoyable and highly recommended experience.

Open Door Productions’ Jesus Christ Superstar opens Thursday, April 3rd, with show dates: April 3 at 7 p.m., April 4 at 7 p.m., April 5 at 7 p.m., April 11 at 7 p.m., and April 12 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Location: The Grand Theatre in The Niagara Arts and Cultural Center, 1201 Pine Ave., Niagara Falls, NY 14301. Enter through the red door on the Portage Ave side of the building.

Tickets for Jesus Christ Superstar are available to purchase now by emailing OpenDoorProductionsWNY@gmail.com. Tickets will also be available at the door. They are $20. For more information about the show or to purchase tickets, please email or send a message through their Facebook page!