Sidmouth Musical Theatre’s show set for stint at Manor Pavilion

Jesus Christ Superstar, the rock opera by Andrew Lloyd-Webber and Tim Rice, moved into the Manor Pavilion Theatre at the weekend.

On Sunday, the 35-strong Sidmouth Musical Theatre cast will be helping the stage crew lay the floor and assemble the impressive set, which will arrive from South Wales.

They will also meet the 11-piece band for the first time.

After a further week of rehearsals - including a dress rehearsal next Friday - performances begin on Saturday, March 19.

One of the challenges they will face will be adapting the complex dance routines - worked out in the rehearsal hall - to the Manor stage, which will be transformed for the production and which will effectively be part of the auditorium as the band will, on this occasion, be hidden behind the scenes.

Every member of the cast - including leading principals Matt Colson, David Finlay and Cara Shepherd - is extremely excited about presenting Jesus Christ Superstar to the Sidmouth public for the first time.

Everyone would agree that the show has been the group’s most challenging production to date but also one of the most fulfilling.

Jesus Christ Superstar is being directed by Vicky Evans, who is joined by Simon Carter as musical director.

Some tickets (£15) are still available at the box office on 01395 514413). Performances run nightly from Saturday, March 19, to Saturday, March 26 (not on the Sunday) with a matinee on Saturday.