Jesus has a new betrayer over at Jesus Christ Superstar.
Sure, Judas is still doing the dirty work, but now actor Tony Vincent takes the role instead of the originally-announced Jason Pebworth. The decision to replace Pebworth came from the American producers, according to a press spokesperson.
Vincent began performances in Superstar as Simon, the disciple who sings "Simon Zealotes' Song," a call for violent takeover of Jerusalem by the Jews. A veteran of Rent on Broadway and on tour, he has released a self-titled album of his own.
Replacing Vincent as Simon is Michael K. Lee. His credits include the Broadway and national tours of Miss Saigon (Thuy) and Rent, where he understudied Angel, and an L.A. Ovation Award nominated turn in Beijing Spring.
* The updated British revival of Jesus Christ Superstar began Broadway performances March 23 at the Ford Center for the Performing Arts. The Andrew Lloyd Webber-Tim Rice rock opera opens April 16, the Christian calendar's Palm Sunday, which marks the triumphant welcoming of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem.
Australian Gale Edwards directs. In the West End, she directed the successful British revival and tour of Jesus Christ Superstar (which began in Newcastle) and Whistle Down the Wind. Other credits include the UK tour and Australian premiere of Aspects of Love and the Broadway-bound Peter Allen musical, The Boy From Oz. Anthony Van Laast joins her as choreographer.
Designing are Peter J. Davidson (sets), Roger Kirk (costumes), Mark McCullough (lighting) and Richard Ryan (sound). Lloyd Webber provided his own orchestrations.
Superstar, the musicalized story of Jesus Christ from Palm Sunday through the crucifixion, made its world premiere on Broadway at the Mark Hellinger Oct. 12, 1971. It ran there 720 performances. The original London production ran for eight years and 3,358 performances, the fifth- longest running West End show. Songs from the piece include the U.S. chart hit "I Don't Know How to Love Him" and "Superstar."
Tickets are $81-$26. The Ford Center is located at 213 West 43rd Street. For tickets, call (212) 307-4100.
