Croswell’s Jesus Christ Superstar Is A Super Hit

The Croswell Opera House raised the curtain for 2026, celebrating its 160^th anniversary, with the Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice iconic rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar. It opened on Broadway in 1971 and ran for 711 performances.

Superstar was directed by Eric Parker, with choreography and assistant direction by Domonique Glover, vocal direction by Mandy Kruse and the conductor was Dave Rains.

Parker told the story through the actors. “Superstar is a musical that has stood the test of time, with a message that is still relevant today,” Parker said. “It shows what people do in the name of religion, sometimes influenced by political leaders, love or spiritual devotion.” After Jesus is crucified, historical images are projected that show the brutality that has occurred, in the name of religion. The stalking of Jesus included the use of characters resembling modern-day Ice Agents, faces hidden behind sunglasses, wanting to find and kill Jesus. It was chilling.

Nathan Goldsmith as Jesus & Anthony Pierznowski as Simon with the ensemble. Photo by Lad Strayer.

What makes Croswell’s Superstar effective is the story is told through facial expressions and songs. The story is familiar, targeting individuals who are different. They are harassed, abused, arrested and ultimately, killed. Parker helped actors to feel the humanity of each character, revealing their story through the lyrics they sang.

Jeemell Green (Judas) and Nathan Goldsmith (Jesus) shined in the two lead roles. They portrayed each character with a restrained presentation that worked well. Their voices were strong, clear and delivered high intensity at the right moments. Goldsmith’s Jesus displayed his growing bewilderment, becoming physically and emotionally exhausted, then praying to God in the emotional “Gethsemane”.

JeeMell Green as Judas and Nathan Goldsmith as Jesus. Photo by Lad Strayer.

Green’s Judas had a powerful singing voice and an emotional depth that was convincing. His anguish over his betrayal of Jesus was powerful as he sang “Damned For All Time/Bloody Money” which ended Act I. From start to finish, Green was dynamic.

Cassidy Giddens played Mary Magdalene. Singing “I Don’t Know How To Love Him” was tender and heartfelt. Other cast members included Bruce Hardcastle as Caiaphas, Jospeh Ball as Herod, Maxwell Lam as Peter and Anthony Pierzynowski as Simon Zealotes. Ball sang a rousing version of “Herod’s Song”, taunting Jesus, whipping up the crowd encouraging the crucifixion of Jesus. Parker selected Maya Gangadharan in the role of Potius Pilate, believing that she was the driving force behind Pilate’s decision to kill Jesus. It worked.

Cassidy Giddens as Mary Magdalene. Photo by Ashlee Sayles.

Kneeling Nathan Goldsmith as Jesus and Maya Gangadharan as Pilate. Photo by Lad Strayer.

The design team included Nat Farver on sets, Collin Wagner with lights, Karl Kasischke on sound, Pierce Mitchell managing projection design, Sabriyah Davis designing costumes, Love Ruddell with wigs/hair and Donna Andre on props.

Superstar opened Croswell’s 160^th anniversary and was a visual delight. The choreography filled the stage with a sea of motion. The 13-piece orchestra enhanced the rock opera. With four keyboards, two percussionists, a drummer, brass, bass and two guitars, they rocked the night away.

Joseph Ball as Herrod and ensemble. Photo by Lad Strayer.

Superstar is a thrilling evening of entertainment. However, the true superstar of this production is Eric Parker. His vision brought this story to life.

Superstar runs through May 17^th. Tickets can be purchased at croswell.org or by calling (517) 264-7469. Croswell is located at 129 E. Maumee St., in Adrian.