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'Greatest Story' Back On Tampa Stage

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By KATHY GREENBERG

Tribune Correspondent

Published: June 24, 2008

TAMPA - TAMPA - The greatest story ever told must be pretty darn good; it's been retold too many times to count and still going strong. So when Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice created the rock opera "Jesus Christ Superstar," first released as a double album in 1970 and brought to stage in 1971, they were nearly guaranteed an instant hit. Despite backlash from religious groups, five Tony Award nominations, a film adaptation and numerous subsequent stage productions proved Webber and Rice knew what they were doing.

The musical returns to the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center this week only. Ted Neeley, who starred in Norman Jewison's 1973 movie version and was in the original Broadway production, is reprising his role as Jesus Christ. Though the actor admits he's got some big sandals to fill, he claims the show's message overshadows the magnitude of the part.

"This is not about religion. We are not preaching from the stage. This is not Christian rock. …This piece is about universal spirituality," Neeley says.

"Jesus Christ Superstar" is based on gospels in the New Testament and tells the story of the last seven days of Christ's life. In two parts, it follows his arrival in Jerusalem, the concern over his growing popularity, Judas' disillusionment with the movement and eventual betrayal, and Christ's trial and crucifixion.

Director Dallett Norris agrees with Neeley that the show is secular in its humanity. He also points out that the story's timeless relevance would appeal to most people, regardless of religious background or beliefs.

"We are in the middle of wars fought for religious reasons. But the passions and desires people have to live fuller lives I don't think are diminished today. Just in political terms, [the show] is incredibly germ right now. In theatrical terms, it's an incredible piece," Norris says.

Andrew Lloyd Webber fans and musical theater buffs will surely flock to see this production. Skeptics, however, need know only that they will not be bombarded with holy dogma. Rather, they will get to rock out with the intentions of love and acceptance.

"Jesus Christ Superstar" plays 8 p.m. tonight, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sunday; $26.50 to $65; Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, Morsani Hall, 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa; (813) 229-7827

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