This November, the Orillia Opera House stage will echo with the iconic guitar licks that open Mariposa Arts Theatre’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar. Mariposa Arts Theatre (MAT) has been inspiring audiences in Orillia with quality community theatre productions for 55 years. Coming off of a successful 24/25 season that included 12 nominations at the THEA Awards by Central Ontario’s Association of Community Theatres, Mariposa Arts Theatre is excited for another incredible season on stage.
From November 6th-16th, experience one of the greatest rock operas of the 20th Century that remains as timely with its themes of betrayal, humanity and power today as it did upon its debut 50 years ago. The 1970s rock score contains such well-known numbers as “Superstar,” “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” and “Gethsemane.” A true global phenomenon, Superstar continues to touch new generations of audiences and performers.
Director Ryan LaPlante first arrived at Mariposa Arts Theatre as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the company’s 2022 smash hit production of The Rocky Horror Show, and was so inspired by the experience, he knew this was the space to bring his vision for a production of another of his favourite musicals: Jesus Christ Superstar.
“Superstar is one of the most beautifully written musicals of the last 50 years,” says LaPlante. “Each song is a monologue and tells its own story. And when you bring those stories together they’re a musical tapestry that’s impossible to forget.”
The first musical by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber to be produced for the professional stage, Jesus Christ Superstar has remained a timeless work set against the backdrop of an extraordinary and universally known series of events but seen, unusually, through the eyes of Judas Iscariot.
Looking at the legacy of not only the show, but the story it depicts, LaPlante sees a lot of relevance for today. “The time to put on a production of Jesus Christ Superstar is now. The show explores the life of one of the loudest voices for compassion in human history – and we need more compassion in the world.” LaPlante looks to pull parallels between Jesus’ treatment at the hands of the Romans in the past, and how many of the people preaching kindness and compassion in the media and politics are treated now. Finding these parallels have inspired a team of creatives, onstage and behind the scenes, for the production.
Turning Water into Wine – or Rather Some Craft Brews
MAT has partnered with Orillia’s own craft brewery, Couchiching Craft Brewing Co. to brew up, not one, but two specialty labels in celebration of the show.
And while not as simple as turning water into wine, the cast and crew were given the chance to experience the craft brewing process first-hand alongside brewers Rama Sriharsha and Evan Running. “When we do collaborations, I don’t want to take charge,” says Sriharsha, “I would rather people come in and be excited about the beer they want to make.”
The MAT team worked alongside the CCBC team to develop a small batch flavour that winked at moments in the show. It has been a great opportunity for some theatre kids to learn more about how craft beer is made and for the brewery team to learn more about the production.
A surprising amount of parallels can be drawn from creating theatre and creating beer. There are many more technical aspects than one might think, but also a great amount of creativity and collaboration to make something fresh and exciting. Actor Josh Halbot, who plays Judas in the production, had the honours of being up close and involved in the brewing process. “Brew day was like a grown up field trip as Rama and Evan walked us through all the complex and fascinating steps that go into beer-making. They allowed us to participate in every step of the process, from grinding to souring to drinking!”
As for the beers themselves, there will be two Superstar labels to keep your eyes on:
The first brew is a “Jaded Mandarin” Sour Pale Ale referencing lyrical moments from The Last Supper when heated words are shared between Jesus and Judas. Using a blood orange flavour, as a nod to Christian allegory, to add a vibrant flavour and colour to the brew. Pick up the Jaded Mandarin for a limited time at Couchiching Craft Brewing Co and Brewery Bay Food Co.
The second label, the “Mary Märzdalene” in honour of the character of Mary Magdalene, is a relabel of CCBC’s Mariposa Märzen+. This one will be available exclusively at the Orillia Opera House during the run of the production from November 6-16th.
For more information and tickets, visit www.mariposaartstheatre.com/superstar or call the Orillia Opera House Box Office at 705-326-8011. November 13th will be a special performance featuring the show’s understudies. Recommended for ages 8+. Group rates are available where you can save $5 on each ticket for 10 or more tickets.
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of The Really Useful Group.
