Superstar opens Thursday at RWT!
Jane Zussman
Jesus Christ Superstar - Legendary Rock Opera Takes the Stage at Riverwalk Theatre!
Riverwalk Theatre is set to electrify audiences this winter with Jesus Christ Superstar, the Tony Award–winning rock opera with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice. This bold, emotionally charged production opens Thursday, February 26 and runs through Sunday, March 8, 2026 on the Rotary Main Stage.
Director: Josh Martin
Music Director: Kait Wilson
Synopsis: Told entirely through song, Jesus Christ Superstar explores the final days of Jesus Christ, culminating in his crucifixion, through the perspective of Judas Iscariot. Set against a universally known story, the musical reframes these events with driving rock music, raw emotion, and timeless questions about faith, power, devotion, and humanity.
Director Josh Martin is at the helm at Riverwalk Theatre with a vision that blends the intensity of a rock concert with deeply personal storytelling. “The story of Jesus and his disciples has always been about inclusion, welcoming, and treating even the most marginalized people as worthy of love,” Martin says. “That message of kindness and acceptance feels especially important right now.”
Unlike traditional stagings, this production embraces gender-blind casting, a diverse ensemble, and a dynamic use of Riverwalk’s thrust stage to bring the audience into the action. With projections, modern anachronisms, and moments that invite audience participation, Martin’s Jesus Christ Superstar is designed to feel immersive, immediate, and thrilling. “We want the audience to feel like they’re at a rock concert and part of the story,” he adds.
Leading the cast is Meghan Malusek as Judas Iscariot, whose performance drives the narrative with intensity and passion, alongside Quentin Villa as a charismatic and introspective Jesus. Kelly Stuible-Clark brings depth and warmth to Mary Magdalene, supported by a powerhouse cast and ensemble. Martin notes standout performances across the board, highlighting Harvey Rancour’s “pure punk energy” as Simon the Zealot.
Musically, the production is in expert hands with Music Director Kait Wilson leading a formidable group of vocalists, while choreography by Karyn Perry brings explosive movement and energy to the stage. The creative team also includes first-time sound and lighting designers in those roles, fostering fresh ideas and bold artistic choices throughout the production.
“This show has been an important part of my life for decades,” Martin shares. “Seeing this vision come to life with such a talented cast and creative team has been incredible. I truly believe we have something powerful on our hands.”
With its powerful score, inclusive casting, and concert-style staging, Jesus Christ Superstar promises to be a visceral and unforgettable theatrical event — one that invites audiences to come ready to rock and leave with a renewed perspective on compassion, community, and love.
Cast:
Judas Iscariot - Meghan Malusek
Jesus - Quentin Villa
Mary Magdalene - Kelly Stuible-Clark
Caiaphas - Nathan Tykocki
Annas - Erin Biel
Peter - Mason Swayze
Simon the Zealot - Harvey Rancour
Pontius Pilate - Lewis C. Elson
King Herod - Elle Bergan
Ensemble - Elaina Coscarella, Janus Hoang, Sylvia Bunn, Tess Klygis, Riley Hirai, Sage Chick, Colorgio Romello, Mani Collazo Coca, JT Tosolt, Andrew Muylle, Nathaniel Myers, Austin Cox, Ta'vion Doss, and Cuauhtemoc Vargas
Show Dates:
Performances of Jesus Christ Superstar run February 26–March 1 and March 5–8, 2026 on the Rotary Main Stage at Riverwalk Theatre. Showtimes are Thursdays at 7:00 PM, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 PM, and Sundays at 2:00 PM.
Tickets:
$25 Adult
$20 Senior/Student/Military
$15 Child (under 12yrs)
This production is on the Rotary Main Stage, and seating is assigned.
Reservations may be made by purchasing tickets online, in person at the Riverwalk Theatre Box Office, by emailing R...@RiverwalkTheatre.com, or by calling (517) 482-5700.
In-person advance ticket sales:
• Wednesdays: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM