Imagine a man of simple means trying to get by in an increasingly fractured society while guiding his fellow humans through trials and tribulations.
But, at the same time, he is being held down and mocked by an authoritarian leader.
The plot of Taieri Musical’s production of rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar is a reflection of present-day politics and society, its director says.
Show director Ben Thomas said that was what gave Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s 54-year-old musical “a timeless quality”.
“It’s about the final days of Jesus’ life — an incredibly well-known story.
“But it’s been reinterpreted as this story about icons and stars and human nature, and in that way, I think it just remains so relevant.
“I don’t think it’s really hard for us to imagine what it might be like to have conflict and strife going on around the world, with authoritarian powers cracking down and division in society.
“These things feel as relevant to a modern audience as they did probably 50 years ago — and 2000 years ago.”
The plot follows Jesus (James Adams) and Mary (Sophie Whibley) through the eyes of Judas (Max Beal).
Many in the audience might recognise some Trumpesque character traits in the character of King Herod, played by Dunedin teacher and rock tenor Greg MacLeod, Mr Thomas said.
“There probably is an element of Trump about Herod, that’s for sure.
“We’ve tried to make some humorous nods towards today’s society and the way our political environments and our media kind of build up these iconic characters and then tear them back down again.”
If ever there was a musical that was so grand that it could be called “biblical”, this was it.
He said the show had an “blazing rock band” score, directed by Samuel Leaper, and amazing choreography by Cadyne Geary.
“People describe it as the musical that changed musical theatre, back in the days when the Rodgers and Hammerstein-style shows that everyone knew were still popular.
“It really is, in some ways, like a great big rock concert.
“It’s a big spectacle, with smoke, lights, lasers and sparkly costumes — the full kahuna.
“We’ve thrown just about every trick in the book at this one, to be honest.
“You can guarantee that no-one’s going to go home complaining that there wasn’t enough going on on stage — that’s for sure.”
The show opens tomorrow night in Dunedin’s Regent Theatre and runs until September 27.