The Connecticut Theatre Company is bringing the timeless rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar to life, and the cast is as passionate as the music itself. This production, running from July 31st to August 9th, 2026, features a talented ensemble that brings fresh energy and contemporary relevance to the classic story.
Among the standout performers are Jakub Watras and Aditi Verma, who share their experiences and insights into the demanding yet rewarding process of bringing this iconic musical to the stage.
Jakub Watras: A Newcomer’s Journey
Jakub Watras, making his debut with the Connecticut Theatre Company, expresses his excitement and enthusiasm for being part of this production. The score of Jesus Christ Superstar is known for its vocal demands, and Watras has embraced the challenge with open arms.
“When I first listened to the tracks, I fell in love with its uniqueness and how different it felt compared to other musicals,” Watras shares. His dedication to the music is evident in his extensive listening sessions, which help him connect deeply with the material.
Maintaining vocal stamina is crucial for a show like this, and Watras has a simple yet effective strategy: hydration. “WATER. Tons and tons of water,” he laughs, emphasizing the importance of staying hydrated to keep his voice in top shape.
The Rehearsal Environment
The high-octane energy of Jesus Christ Superstar requires a supportive and understanding rehearsal environment. Watras praises the cast and crew for their unwavering support and flexibility. “The choreography is certainly heavy, and it does take a toll. But we are lucky to have such great support behind us,” he says, highlighting the importance of breaks and understanding during intense rehearsals.
Balancing Commitments
Balancing full-time jobs, school, or family commitments with an intense rehearsal schedule can be challenging. Watras admits that there have been times when it was difficult to manage everything. However, the supportive nature of the cast and crew has been instrumental in helping him stay on track. “I am so lucky to have such an understanding and supportive group behind me,” he says, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and mutual support.
Aditi Verma: The Soul Girl’s Perspective
Aditi Verma, one of the Soul Girls and a dance captain in the production, brings a wealth of experience to the stage. With 11 years of performing under her belt, Verma is no stranger to the demands of theater. Her vocal warm-up routines include full-range exercises and the use of a nebulizer on show days to keep her voice in optimal condition.
Verma’s role allows her to play multiple characters, which helps her maintain the dramatic arc and emotional stamina throughout the show. “I get to play a lot of characters and representations in this show,” she explains, highlighting the variety and depth of her role.
Contemporary Relevance
The enduring appeal of Jesus Christ Superstar lies in its unique retelling of a well-known story. Verma believes that the energetic rock music and the exploration of different perspectives keep the show relevant to modern audiences. “The music definitely keeps everything contemporary,” she says, praising the show’s ability to resonate with today’s audiences.
Building Cast Chemistry
Community theater casts often become tight-knit quickly, and this production is no exception. Verma describes the cast as super welcoming and supportive from day one. “Everyone is so supportive of each other and is genuinely happy to be there,” she says, highlighting the positive atmosphere backstage.
The Legacy of Jesus Christ Superstar
Jesus Christ Superstar has faced its share of controversy over the years, but both Watras and Verma believe that the cultural perception has shifted significantly. “I think more audiences today see this show as another interpretation of the well-known story rather than being a replacement for it,” Verma explains, emphasizing the show’s acceptance and celebration in modern times.
Critics have praised the show for its vocal showcase and human drama. Rachel Wong of Broadwayworld notes that the story delves into timeless human struggles, making it strikingly relevant to modern audiences. Emil Hofilena of Theater Fans Manila describes it as a “glorious vocal showcase and an aching human drama,” while Rachel Halliburton of highlights the show’s brilliant conceptual range and intelligently provocative lyrics.
As the Connecticut Theatre Company brings Jesus Christ Superstar to life, the cast’s passion and dedication shine through. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the show, this production promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the timeless story and its contemporary relevance.
