Colorado residents will find out this Spring as “The 12” enjoys its world premiere at The Denver Center for the Performing Arts. The production is not officially connected to “Jesus Christ Superstar,” but its story starts where that iconic musical ends – after the crucifixion.
Both productions are rock musicals, with “The 12” powered by an original score by Neil Berg (“Grumpy Old Men”). Berg has described his work on the production as a “open love letter” to classic rock. The new show, however, is set in modern times and features book and lyrics by Tony Award winner Robert Schenkkan (“All the Way”).
“The 12,” according to the press material, follows the disciples as they face the ultimate test of faith in the wake of their leader’s death.
The show’s confirmed casting decisions include Terence Archie (“Rocky”) as John, Jeannette Bayardelle (“Hair,” “The Color Purple”) as Mother Mary, Anthony Fedorov (“American Idol” Season 4 finalist, “Rent”) as Andrew, Colin Hanlon (“Rent,” “Modern Family”) as Pete,and Tony Vincent (“The Voice,” “American Idiot,” “Jesus Christ Superstar”) as Tom.
The original production comes at a time when interest is sky high in faith-based material, particular on the big screen.
“The 12” will run March 27– April 26 (opening April 3) in the Stage Theatre.
DID YOU KNOW: Ted Neeley, the star of the 1973 film “Jesus Christ Superstar” and many theatrical presentations of the musical, has played the title role in varying forms more than 1,700 times.