The musical/rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar was created by lyricist Tim Rice and composer Andrew Lloyd Webber in 1969. It tells the story of the last days of Jesus Christ from his arrival in Jerusalem to his crucifixion. Fearing the reaction of the faithful and the church, the producers first released the songs from the musical on a record album. Only then was the musical performed live in London's West End and later on Broadway. Four years later, a famous film based on the stage musical was made, directed by Norman Jewison. A more recent film adaptation was made in 2000 (directed by Nick Morris).
This is not the first time that Czech audiences have encountered Jesus Christ Superstar, as it was performed in Prague on 24 July 1994 at the Spirála Theatre.
At the turn of March and April 2010, the Karlín Music Theatre held a five-day marathon of casting calls for lead and supporting roles, with nearly 600 artists auditioning for the part. The final selection took place at the beginning of May with the participation of a visiting American director. Partial rehearsals took place in June, and rehearsals got underway on 12 July. Two gala premieres at the Karlín Musical Theatre took place in November 2010 and "Jesus" is still performed today.
UNDERSTUDY
An understudy, or understudy, is a performer who rehearses a specific role in a production but does not regularly appear in it. This understudy is then ready to step into the role at any time if the original performer is unable to perform due to injury, illness, or other unforeseen circumstances. The understudy is therefore an important part of the production and steps in when we would otherwise have to cancel the performance. Understudy attends all rehearsals of the production with the main cast so that he or she has thoroughly rehearsed a particular role and is ready to perform at any time.