Super show promised as SMMS stages Jesus Christ

This year St Mary's Musical Society (SMMS) celebrates its 50th anniversary with the musical phenomenon, Jesus Christ Superstar. It just so happens that Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice also began to write the rock album 50 years ago. 
This is the second production of Jesus Christ Superstar for SMMS. The first one was in 1994 in the community centre with Willie Byrne as Jesus, Robbie Gilbride as Judas and Suzan McDonagh as Mary Magdalene. This year their cast includes Aiden McCluskey as Jesus, Kevin Fagan as Judas and Sinead Butler as Mary Magdalene. 

Liam Butler is back as director this year. This is Liam’s third show to direct with the society, having won the prestigeous AIMS (Association of Irish Musical Society) Best Overall show in 2012 for Little Shop of Horrors and last year winning Best Chorus for All Shook Up. 
Paul Byrne is taking on the task of musical director. This is Paul’s favourite musical show and is delighted to be back with SMMS for their 50th anniversary show. His father, Jim, was a founding member back in 1967 and this year not only wlll Paul be conducting the orchestra but will have his son and brother join him as part of the orchestra. 
Aisling Rountree choreographs the movement within the show and the dancing that brings to life the crowd scenes. 
This year is a big celebration for St Mary’s Musical Society, Navan and they are looking forward to ending their year of celebrations with this show. 
“We have had a fantastic year of celebrating our 50 years. We kicked it off with our Golden Cabaret in August 2017 showcasing songs from all of our past musicals," says David Monaghan, chairperson, SMMS.

"We had a wonderful night of music and memories in December at our 50th Ball, we have a huge sell-out success with our Christmas Panto and now to end it with such an iconic show that was developed 50 years ago by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice is just amazing. We hope everyone enjoys the show.” 
Aiden McCluskey – who plays Jesus auditioned for the role because he remembers the fantastic portrayal of Jesus played by Willie Byrne in 1994. Aiden is well known as being the front man for The Bentley Boys and is excited to be bringing to life Jesus Christ in his first ever leading role on stage. 
Kevin Fagan takes the role of Judas. Kevin has previously played this role with another production of Jesus Christ Superstar some years ago and is delighted to reprise his role. Later this year, Kevin will be taking to the stage in the Cork Opera House in September as Jon Bon Jovi in 'The Bon Jovi Story”' a three-hour musical and theatrical extravaganza about the band's history. 
Sinead Butler comes back to the society on her return to Ireland from living abroad for a few years. She is delighted to be back with SMMS and is blown away with the talent of her fellow cast mates.
The cast line up includes Colin Flynn as King Herod, Seán Flanagan as Pilate, Craig Regan as Simon Zealot, Ultan O’Cinnéide as Peter, Ian Rountree as High Priest Caiaphas and John Husband as High Priest Annas. 
Jesus Christ Superstar is on stage in the Solstice Arts Centre from Wednesday April 25th – Saturday April 28th at 8pm and Sunday April 29th at 6pm. Tickets are €20 available from the Solstice Box Office 0469092300

Photos: Avril Breslin / Ultan O’Cinnéide Photography

 

Willie Byrne with Aiden McCluskey, Kevin Fagan and Sinead Butler.