You think our set was good...?

...take a look at this one!

Mind you, they did have £120,000 to spend...

Compare it with this one, which looks like they were performing in a broom cupboard (although they do have nice costumes).

What's next?

As we all start to come to terms with not doing JCS any more, many of us are turning to other things to fill our time. Let me know what your next project is and I'll give it a mention on here. I'll see if I can come up with some kind of calendar affair so we can all see what events are up and coming, and hopefully generate a bit of interest in each other's work.

For instance, me and Lisa are rehearsing for the Grimsby Philharmonic Christmas concert on 12th December at the Central Hall. It's the official start of Christmas for us and is a really festive occasion. And our soloist this year is none other than Harem dancer extraordinaire Rachel Robinson. So even more reason to come and see us.

Anyway, let me know through the usual channels and I'll publicise your event for you.

Hitchin Thesbians photos

Found this page from the "Hitchin Thesbians", showing some photos from their JCS dress rehearsal. Interesting to see the difference in costumes and staging of some numbers. Personally, I think Mary looks like Snow White!
Also looks like they never lifted the cross to its full height...AND they got Jesus of the cross. Tut tut...

Buxton JCS Review

Here's a review by the BBC (where was our BBC Review???) of the Buxton version of JCS, who had the set after us. Comes across as another excellent performance, although they obviously didn't have the quality stage hands that we did, as they were seen through the back doors!

Also, no mention of any emotion in Judas' Death or The Crucifixion. I think you'd struggle to beat our performance on that count.

The week after

It's been a funny week this week. After the enormous high of last weekend, then the enormous low of coming back to reality, it's been a real emotional rollercoaster. I started the week in a fit of depression. I worked from home on Monday - just as well as I couldn't even crack a smile. Got my hair cut & trimmed the beard - bye bye Judas :o(

Went into the office on Tuesday and just felt really out of place. It felt so wierd...almost like someone had died - just a big empty space where this show had been. I certainly didn't feel like working and it was a real struggle to focus.

It has got steadily easier as the week has gone on, although there is still that nagging sense of loss at the back of my mind. I think because we reached such a fantastic high, it's going to take a long time to recover. I don't think many of us will never experience anything like that again.

It's been great reading all your messages on here. It's so nice to see new people coming on and sharing their thoughts, not just my usual fan club! (No offence girls! :o) ). I've been really touched by the kind things you've had to say about my performance - I feel really humbled. For me it was just mind-blowing to think that I was part of such an amazing cast, putting on such a professional show. I would have loved to have been able to watch it all!

Please keep the photos and stuff coming - I'm going to put Martha's pictures up today, so look out for those. And if you have any friends of family that saw the show, get them to take a look at the site and leave a message - it would be good to hear comments from an audience perspective.

Keep posting the comments - I do read them all, but I don't always get chance to log on everyday to reply. I will always get round to it tho.

Anyway, that'll do for now I think. You all know how to get in touch, so please do.

See ya all soon,
Richard
xx

And more photos

More photos added, but I've got them in the wrong place. Oh well, can't be bothered to move them just yet. Enjoy!

Chat room

Just doing a little experiment. Look on the right-hand side. You can now access a chat room, for real-time chat. Don't know how this one will work out, but let's give it a go.

If you have XP Service Pack 2, or any other popup-blocker installed, you may have to disable it for this site. The chat applet seems to work as a popup for some reason.

Let me know what u think.

More photos

Thanks to Alison, there are now some photos in the gallery under "The Show". There's more to come apparently, so keep an eye out.

if you've got any photos from the show that you'd like to appear in the gallery, please send them to me.

Super Saturday Part 3 - It is finished

On came the hanging harness for the last time. Pete McRoberts has been great helping me get into it each night. He was my trusted hangman and that is why I always felt safe, knowing he was there on the end of the rope. I was only slightly disturbed when I heard he had a hangman's hood on when he did it! :-o

"The Last Supper" was just great. All the apostles have been fantastic - such a great group of guys and all with such amazing voices. The harmony on "pool of wine" really sent shivers down my spine every time. Our argument was very emotional for me this time - I could feel myself really letting go and losing control - I ran off stage and straight up to the dressing room. normally I would stay there, but I had to hear Pete tonight so I headed straight back down to the wings.

"Gethsemane" was just breathtaking. By the middle of the song tears were streaming down my face. I think there were quite a few others in the same state as well. When Pete hits those high notes...it just shook me to the core. This guy deserves every bit of praise that has been heaped upon him. A voice like that should be out thrilling audiences every night. Rapturous applause for Pete on Saturday and rightly so.

On I come for "The Arrest", having hastily wiped the tears from my eyes. "There he is, they're all asleep, the fools" then Pete turns round, and I betray him for the last time, again collapsing into his arms, but this time crying real tears.

Off I go and try to compose myself in the dressing room, although I only really succeed in making things worse. I had wanted to see "Pilate and Christ" and "Herod's Song" as I'd not seen either of them all the way through, but I was crying that much that I missed them. I did hear them over the PA, however, and they sounded fantastic. Steve's voice has come back totally and he did it so well. I have to mention the dancing girls as well...although I never really ot to see their performance, I know from the dress rehearsal that they were really great and such a perfect accompaniment to Steve's super-camp Herod.

I just managed to get myself sorted in time for "Could we start again please?". Well, that set me off again. As I've said before, this is my kids' favourite, Joseph especially, and all I could think of was them. I just stood in the wings stage-right and wept buckets. The words to this song are so moving and Tom and Caroline sing it so fantastically. I just felt crushed, totally crushed.

So, by the time I have to come running on for "Judas' Death" I was in a right state, thankfully this only added to my performance. Fighting back the worst of my tears, I did my best to sing my opening lines "My god, I saw him...", but then let it all go on "Christ I know you can't hear me...". No acting required this time...I was sobbing the lines, eyes and nose running like a child. And when I saw the noose...god...i was in another place totally...I couldn't have given a different performance as I was just doing it for real. I didn't want to put the rope round my neck, as I knew this would be the last time I did it. But then I knew I had to, nothing could stop me. My only concern was how to stop crying when I died? But die I did, and pretty spectacularly. I swung quite a way forward and back, enough so my face was briefly lit by the lights. Lisa said this was really scary, seeing my face.

As I came down, I had to focus...I wanted to sit and cry my heart out, but that would have to come later. I had to drag myself up again for "Superstar". This has always been so hard for me to do, and never any harder than that night.

On came the suit for the last time. Although most people are agreed that it wasn't really the right costume given the context of the show, I'm kind of going to miss it really. It always felt strange having spent the rest of the show being so miserable, to don that suit meant I could be happy and jump and dance about the stage. Anyway, the song went so well. I tried to give it all I could in terms of hips and pelvis(!). Instead of discarding my cape, I pulled my zip half-way down this time...a little bit of naughty Judas for the last night I thought! Huge applause, which was really nice, and then off.

After a quick hug from the soul girls, I took of my mic and stayed in the wings. I had to be there at the end - I just couldn't bring myself to move. So I stood stage-left where I could just see Pete's head at the top of the auditorium, covered in blood, wearing the crown of thorns. I put my head on the side of the stage and I cried. I cried for Pete on the cross, I cried for me, for having achieved my dream, for my family, for giving them what I had wanted to - a reason to be really proud of me, I cried for the last 7 months and for the future. I could feel a hug approaching - it was Emma, down on her knees giving me a hug through the hand-rail. She was inconsolable too. I trudged back to the changing room and carried on where I had left off. I was on my own, so I just let it all go and tried to settle myself down again.

I got dressed quickly and went out towards the bar. I couldn't help but stop for a moment as a drew level with Pete on the cross. I just had to pause and look at him for a moment, lost in confusing emotions. More tears. The bar was full of people - really busy. All I wanted to do was get to Lisa and cry in her arms. But there were so many people there, all congratulating me, which was really lovely - everyone's been soo good to be. But all I needed was a hug. I eventually got one, all too short, but it helped. I was just in a daze. My parents and my sister and her husband were there, as well as loads of friends. They all thought it was fantastic. I couldn't really take everything in.

And so it was finished. Time to clear the dressing rooms, hand back the scores, give in the costumes and strike the set. Time to wearily leave the stage behind and head back to reality. Time to leave the dreamworld we have lived in for the last week and re-connect with our families. A time to stop and think for some of us. What does the future hold? Who knows. There is such talent in this society, and everyone has been amazing. When I joined, I only knew a small handful of people, but now I feel I can call another 60 people my friend.

This isn't the last you will hear of me on this website. I will write more (a bit about the striking of the set, the party and the aftermath) but that will have to wait. It's taken me long enough to write this. But at this point I just want to say thanks you to everyone involved in the show. You know it has been my dream to play this part and you have all contributed to helping make that dream come true. I am truly proud to have taken part in this production and I hope everyone has enjoyed it as much as I have.

Please, everyone, keep in touch.

Richard

Super Saturday Part 2 - Try not to get worried

Emotions were running high. A sell-out crowd was expected. Lots of friends and family in the audience. A party after. But I think everyone's excitement was tempered with some sadness that this was really it...the final performance of this fantastic show.

Make-up was applied for the last time (well, for me anyway!), the costume, now looking a bit grubby round the edges, was pulled on once more. The hair smoothed down and the headband put in place. The microphone tucked in correctly and I was ready. Excited and depressed. A little scared about what was going to happen when this was all over. But more than anything, determined to give the best performance I could to send this show off with a bang.

I tried to take everything in as I was doing it so I could remember. The walk through the audience during the overture, stepping up onto stage and gazing a Pete, looking every bit the man he was portraying. Feeling the spotlight pick me up as the crowd dispersed. The stage lights turn red - Judas' colour - and I start for the last time.

"Heaven..." - I have loved singing this song. It is such a great way to start the show - really sets the mood. I gave it some welly and managed to get through it with my voice intact.

"What's the buzz?" - I liked the little look me and Pete shared at the top of the set - a lot was said in that glance and I hope the audience picked up on it. This song is just great. The chorus were amazing, and, combined with the fantastic band giving it all they had, and the crazy, funky lights at the back, combined to really knock the audience's socks off.

"Strange Thing..." - This got better as the wek went on. I have to say I took my inspiration for this bit from Jerome Pradon (Judas in recent JCS video). He does it so well and I love his sneering attitude. Pete was great in this number. The way he turned away from me a looked to the sky on "when I'm gone!"....magic.

"Everything's Alright" - where we first hear Caroline's beautiful voice, with the lovely backing by the Apostles and their wives...nice and gentle - well done guys. My voice was in no state to sing "feet and hair" by this time, so I just shouted the last word. I resisted the temptation to stick my tongue out at Ali as she looked up at me while walking off :o)

"This Jesus Must Die" - These guys have been great. They sounded amazing in this. Kev and Gary made a great double-act.

"Hosanna" was definitely a triumph. Everyone I spoke to who had seen it said it was great. And the effect of Pete grabbing the red cloth as he walked up the stage really did work. The chorus did such a great job in this, and on Saturday it was just fantastic.

"Pilate's Dream" - David has been great in this role and Saturday's performance was no exception. I imagine it's easy to go over the top with it and be very agressive, but I think David played it to perfection. And he's been such a nice guy to share a room with (I know coz he told us! lol...only kidding). Me him and Pete had such a laugh last week, it really helped to keep me going.

"The Temple" - I really enjoyed this scene. I got to enjoy the great singing by the chorus, and the great dancing by the girls on the balcony ;o) As usual, this was a great performance by all, and Pete really hit the mark with his "My temple should be...". Big well done to everyone for the lepers scene - I think this was one of the most effective scenes in the first half - when the lights went green it totally changed the mood and you all did so well at being afflicted! (By the way, I found a foot in the wings on the last night, email me if you lost one.....)

"I don't know..." - My dad reckoned Caroline sang this better than any recording he has ever heard, and I would have to agree with him. Stunning, simply stunning.

"Damned for all time" - Although this has given me so much grief, I will really kind of miss it. I was really struggling to keep going with it - it's an excercise in breath control - but at least I managed to get my words out this time! And I just love the ending - standing in front of the red lights with the bag...fade to black...then sloping off down the stairs snivelling to myself. What a way to end the act.

Super Saturday Part 1 - Magic Matinee

Well, here goes. Hope I can remember everything ...

Saturday was a very strange day. I had such a mix of emotions going on, I didn't know which way to turn. I really struggled to get myself organised - in a way I didn;t want to start, as I knew once I had started, then it would all soon be over. But, then again, I knew today would be the best day yet. So, I arrived at the suditorium and started getting ready. There was a strange atmosphere - I think there always is with a matinee - a bit flat - not the energy of evening performances. There were gifts and "good luck"s in abundance...everyone was really up for a cracking day.

The performance didn't disappoint, however. Lisa was in the audience with the kids, so I really wanted it to be good for them, and it was. Of course there were one or two slip ups - Kev filling in as Gary forgot a line and Pete's "One of you denies me , one of you benies me!". My favourite was by me though...I had been running around the stage during the intro for "Damned..." and had worn myself out so much that I couldn't form any words! The song started something like this: "Now mummunm memff noo mit manums bom nu fee"...better take it steady next time huh?

Other than these interesting bits, the performance was really slick and professionally done. Great voices from everyone - mine was still limited, but wasn't getting any worse, which was the main thing.

My death went really well (the kids thought it was great apparently - not in the least bit upset - a bit worrying really) and Superstar was a little bit wilder than before! The crucifixion was just as stunning as always.

And so the penultimate performance came to an end. The cast scattered to go and entertain themselves in between shows. Those who ventured into the bar were accosted by my kids and their friends wanting autographs - very sweet! Everyone enjoyed it and Lisa could see such a huge improvement since Tuesday night. The hug I got from my 3 when I walked in the bar made all the hard work worthwhile. A moment to treasure.

I walked into town with Pete for some chill-out time. We quite litterally chilled out coz it was bloomin freezing outside, but we braved the elements and went for a MacD's to keep us going, before heading back to recover in the warmth of the dressing room.

Overall a very successful matinee performance. The trick is then to pick yourself up for the evening.

My mind is in darkness now...

Sorry folks...I know you're all waiting for my report from Saturday, but I don't think it's going to happen today for 2 reasons:

1 - it's been Lisa'a birthday, so I've been busy all day
2 - every time i think about what happened I just start to cry.

So, you will have to be patient.

Hopefully, when it comes, it will be worth the wait.

Don't forget to send me any photo's you took. I know there were lots being taken.

:o( Richard :o(

PS...Don't worry, I'm going to keep maintaining this website with stuff, so do keep coming back!

PPS Some of you wanted my hotmail address - it's on my Blogger profile page. Feel free to add me as a contact in MSN Messenger.

Fabulous Friday

Another amazing night. Rumour has it that there was over 1000 people in last night - it certainly was the biggest audience yet. Despite the state of my voice, I felt it went really well yet again. I did my modified version of Judas and it seemed to go okay. There was a real buzz about the cast last night and I think it translated into an electrifying performance.

All the big numbers were slick and full of energy. All the principals were in fine voice, and the chorus were sounding better than ever.

Highlight of the night for me has to be the audience having stunned silence when I hung, followed by a huge round of applause! I thought I'd sussed out what the reaction would be every time, but this took me by surprise...thought my pants had come down or something! ;-) (calm down girls...!)

I had brought a bunch of flowers for all the Soul Girls, and they got me a walking, singing Elvis-pig. Hmmm...thanks girls! I'm yet to try it out, but I'll let you know just what it sounds like!

Talking of Elvis, "Superstar" was even funkier than before. I was really giving it everything last night. I never landed on anyone this time when I leapt from the steps, although I think Sarah was a bit scared when I did a bit of funky pelvis action with her! Sorry Sarah! :o) I nearly swore out loud getting off stage as I kicked the blue stage light on my way off! That could have really spoiled the atmosphere!

So, all in all, another fantastic performance. Followed up by a really great night do. It was the after-show supper - a carvery at Littlefields restaurant. It was a really good night, even though I had to put up with Mandy's stinky egg mayonaise, Mandy's Exposed bra and John's thong. ;o)
Oh, and my web-site got a shout from my "posse" (their word, not mine!). "What are you going to put when it's all over?" asked Susan. Good question...

It is tradition at these occasions for Keith to do a song where he takes the songs from the show and puts his own words to them. Tonight's was a JCS megamix lasting about 10 minutes - he looked shattered by the end of it, but it was totally awesome. Keith, you are an amazingly talented guy and I salute you! The song was so funny.

And so the night came to an end...people looking rather emotional. I had a particularly moving moment when I was asked to sign a piece of toilet paper with Ellie's rather posh lipstick for Nadia. Apparently she was in Showboat when I was Captain Andy and she was even younger than she is now. I signed her program (being such a nice guy...) and they thought I should sign something for her now she's all grown up(!). Thanks girls, that was a really special moment ;-)

So, today is the last day....a mega-hard day all round. 2 shows, lots of emotions, srtiking the set afterwards, then party like it's 33AD with the Westons.

I can't wait, but, then again, I don't want it to end.

Let's go out on a bang!

Thrilling Thursday

You can see where I'm going with these headlines, can't you...?

Against the odds, last night's was reportedly one of my best performances yet. My upper register was very croaky, so I had been planning how I could modify my songs slightly to account for this. I think this led to me being much more controlled in my singing, which, in turn, made for a better performance.

"Heaven..." went really well, apart from singing the last verse twice! Keith thought he'd turned 2 pages over by mistake, but it was just me - too busy thinking how I was going to reach the last note that I wandered into the wrong verse. The audience wouldn't have noticed tho.

"Strange thing Mystifying" reamined intact as it is not too high, but "Everything's Alright" was more spoken than sung.

Everything else was really slick....the chorus did brilliantly, sounded great and they seemed to be moving so much easier now. I think we're all getting comfortable with it now. "Simon Zealotes" rocked and "The Temple" was great - Pete was in fine voice, despite having spent 4 hours being sick today - a bit of a worry!

Caroline did her usual stunning performance of "I Don't Know...". I think this gets better every night. I then had quite a job to sing "Damned...". As you know by now, it's a bitch of a song to sing, and clearly I was not in the right state to do it properly...but somehow I think I managed to do it okay.

At the interval, everyone seemed really pleased with how it was going and I was glad I wasn't pushing my voice - I still felt very in control and ready to get on with the second half.

"The Last Supper" was great as ever - the lads did us proud!. The argument was more shouted than sung by me, but I guess that's realistic. It kind of made me more emotional doing it this way, which probably added to the perfomance.

As usual, the rest of the second half sounded great from the dressing room. It's good to hear Steve's voice getting stronger each night. David also goes from strength to strength I think. He really is great as Pilate.

My death was a bit more restrained, but, I think, more menacing for it. "My mind is in darkness now..." was all very low, only raising to a cry at "Your foul, bloody crime". Off I stepped and hung myself again...this time i swear I heard "Oh my god!" from the audience - great stuff. Just the reaction I like. I managed to get down the steps okay again and dashed off for "Superstar".

I think I went a bit wild in this last night. Something got into me and I just went for it - wiggling hips, thrusting the pelvis - all very Elvis. I nearly landed on top of poor Sarah when I took a leap from the steps, but she survived unscathed! I was singing it low, sounding very Elvis as well! it went down a storm, thanks goodness!

And there we have it, another superb night. I'll do a similar performance tonight and hopefully my voice will be back to normal by Saturday for a big final blast.

If you've got any comments about last night's performance that you want to share, click here to add them, or email me.

Another night, another article

The full cast list appeared in the Telegraph tonight, underneath the headline 'SUPERSTAR' PERFORMERS TAKE A BOW. There was also the photo of Pete, Caroline & I that was taken last night. It actually came out really well - we're not laughing on this one! Shame it's only black-and-white again, but never mind.

Super second night

Another great show last night...

We had to get there early as the Telegraph were coming to take some more photos (hope we get some colour ones in this time). There was a group shot of the principals, and then one of Pete, Caroline and I in a suitable pose. I hope they got a good shot, coz we kept giggling while trying to maintain our serious expressions!

There was a good atmosphere backstage. Everyone was really pumped up by the excellent review in the paper, especially me.

The opening numbers all went well. My voice wasn't quite what it was on Tuesday - I had given it my all to make sure we had a good start and was suffering a little - but I still managed OK. Pete and Caroline were still in fine voice, as were the chorus.

The audience (another packed house) were quite responsive, giving good applause in the right places.

"Damned for all time" started OK, but I seemed to have a problem with my microphone after a while - not good. I wasn't really aware of it till everyone asked what had happened when I came off stage. The sound guys changed the wire and it seemed to do the job. When I had finished my song at the top of the stage, the lights faded to black, and still the audience were in silence. It wasn't until I had wearily plodded off stage down the steps that they realised it was over and started the applause.

The second half was great. The Apostles sang really well again, and Pete's "Gethsemane" was outstanding as usual. Huge round of applause, well deserved.

I didn't see much more of the second half, but what I heard through the PA sounded great.

My death went well as usual. The guys lowered me to the balcony floor in the blackout and gave me enough slack on the rope so I could make my way down the steps to be unhooked. I think this probably worked better than doing it on stage and was a little safer than wrapping me in a blanket. Hopefully it looked good.

Then the quick dash to change for "Superstar". I was a bit more organised this time so it wasn't quite as bad as normal. I didn't really have the voice for this, but then again it is always a bit of a strain at this point of the show. But the performance was good and the Soul Girls were great as usual.

The crucifixion went according to plan this time. Stunned silence from the audience, then applause, then as the house lights came up they filed out, many maintaining their gaze on Peter as they went. He stayed up for about 20 minutes this time and was pretty shattered when he came down - hardly surprising.

So that's another night gone. 4 more perfomances to go.

If you've got any comments about last night's performance that you want to share, click here to add them, or email me.

Top Telegraph review

David Peasgood's review of last night's performance is in the Grimsby Evening Telegraph tonight. We could hardly have asked for a better write-up.

He starts by saying that

"If you only go and see one show in the next 12 months, make it this one"

calling it

"an absolute tour de force...with enough panache to grace a metropolitan stage....visually stunning"

The staging, lighting, choreography and music are "examplary", "invigorating" and "brilliant" and the band "complement the songs to perfection".

"The cast...has quality and talent in abundance. Peter Finnegan as Jesus has a lovely vocal quality that draws great empathy to his character. James Clark as Simon, Tom Weston as Peter and David Wrightham as Pilate are yet more charismatic stars"

I was pleasantly surprised to read that, for him

"the most impressive performances came from Caroline Maasdam-Gooch and Richard Barley. Richard has a wonderfull strong vocals, whilst his impressive and emotive acting culminated in a death scene that left the audience speechless with awe"

:o) how kind :0)

His favourite numbers were "Heaven...", "I Don't Know...", "Gethsemane", "The Last Supper" and "Herod's Song" and Steve was a "stylish Herod" which "went down a scream".

The only downer, and I think there are lots of reasons for this, was this bit

"My sole criticism was the finale rendition of Superstar, which I found incongruous with the traditional interpretation of the story."

Now, we obviously can't change the show, so Superstar has to be there. It is supposed to be Judas taunting Jesus in a vision from the future, asking him the awkward questions about whether it was all worth it. There are maybe a few things we could have done differently to get this over to the audience better...I have always thought that Jesus should be on stage for the number, so I can taunt him...If the program had a line of explaination about each scene, this might have helped...and maybe the costumes put people off a bit. I don't know, but there's nothing to be done about it now. Perhaps a different audience will get into the song a bit more and it will have the desired effect. A very minor blot on an otherwise superb review.

The crucifixion, he says

"was a phenomenal moment of poignancy that will stay in the mind of everyone attending for many years."

So true.

He rounded off by suggesting that we will win

"every award going in the field of amateur musical theatre and justifiably so.
Everyone involved raised personal standards to levels I have not previously seen in a decade enjoying this society and this was rich, vibrant, exciting and stimulating theatre at it's best, with every cast member a superstar."

I couldn't have put it better myself!

Fantastic First Night

Well, that's it...first night over, and what a night! Everyone was so ready for it...so excited to finally have an audience - there was such a great atmosphere, it was amazing. Everyone was really kind - I got loads of cards and some really nice gifts...shame I'm not so organised, but there's still time!

Waiting in the wings to come on for the opening, it suddenly dawned on me what I was about to do. After all the months of rehearsing, after so many years of dreaming about it, I was actually going to go on and do this part. How lucky am I? And the auditorium was full - on a Tuesday night, this is incredible.

The audience went silent as Keith struck up the band - that guitar line has to be the best opening to a show anywhere! - and out we went, through the audience, gathering up more followers as we went. Round the auditorium and onto the stage as the final guitar slide leads up to the triumphant "Superstar" melody on the horns. Absolute bloody magic.

Then it was all down to me. This was what I had waited for, and I think I did well. My voice was holding up better than at the dress rehearsal, so I gave it everything I had. The big round of applause afterwards made it all worth while.

"What's the buzz" was fantastic - I could see that everyone was really giving it everything. I was a little bit more mocking than normal in "Strange Thing Mystifying". It was good to have a bit of a smile, even if it was a sarcastic one!

"Everything's Alright" sounded great - could really hear the chorus parts this time - and I hit my "feet and hair" without any problem. Then just time for a quick drink & gargle, then back on to watch "Hosanna". This looked fab, and reports from the audience said that it was really effective.

I love the lighting change into "Simon Zealotes"...it's only a few bars of music, but I think it sets a mood which I try to mirror in my expressions from the balcony. When the band kicked in with the driving rythm of the main song and the lights started going crazy at the top of the stage, I just thought "Wow...this is one hell of a show". And a big "Well done" needs to go to Julie for putting together such fantastic choreography - everyone I spoke to from the audience said the movement was amazing. The audience went wild after this one, with lots of whistles and whoops - you can always tell when there are friends and family in the audience!

Poor David sang "Pilate's Dream" really well, but it seems the audience didn't know whether to clap or not, so he went off in silence! Then on came the Temple. The lighting worked well on this one, picking out each side of the stage in turn, and the chorus sounded great - we seem to have got over the problem of not being able to hear the band, thanks goodness. And I love the lepers...the green lights give them all a very sickly look, and again, it sounded great.

Caroline pulled out all the stops for "I don't know..." and it sounded lovely. I have to remember to keep looking miserable through this as it's easy to get carried away listening to the song! I tried to be the most menacing I could in my slow walk across the top of the stage and down to Caroline's side - love that bit too!

"Damned..." went well...the Priests are great in this - stony faced and miserable - really intimidating. I managed to kneel in what I hoped was the right spot for the bag of money - I could see it coming down (phew!), so I took it and went to stand against the red light, where I waited for what seemed like 5 minutes (!) before it faded to black. Finally, the audience could appluade.

"The Last Supper" sounded really great - the Apostles make a lovely sound together - and Pete and I really went for it in the argument. Good stuff.

What can I say about "Gethsemane"? I have run out of superlatives to describe Pete's performances of this, and last night was one of his best. Geoff, Emma and I were stood just in the wings, listening and willing him hit each big note well, and he did - every time. Absolutely bloody brilliant Mr Finegan. You are a star. Unfortunately, as I expected, those in the audience who didn't know the song started clapping in the short break after "See how I die!". It kind of spoils the mood a little bit, but I guess it's understandable as it does seem like the end if you don't know any better. Never mind. He still got a huge clap at the real end of the song - well deserved indeed.

"The Arrest" went well - the "Tell me Christ..." lines all managed to keep in time, which was good.

I missed "Pilate and Christ" and "Herod's Song" as I was off psyching myself up for the hanging. "Could we start again please" was superb. Tom and Caroline have such fantastic voices and they blend so well.

I decided to come on through the front steps for "Judas' Death", but perhaps I should have scouted out the route before I tried it for real as I nearly ran staight into the bank of speakers! I finally found my way onto the stage and did my thing. Everyone asks "Are you nervous about the hanging?" but I always feel excited about doing it. It really is my favourite part of the show, and I just can'twait to get up there and hang! I seemed to be hanging for ages last night, and spinning round and round - not ideal with your eyes shut! I was eventually got down and ran off to pick myself up for "Superstar". I think I know now that the hanging is very effective, although I think I need a black sheet or something to be wrapped round me as I am taken off - the audience could clearly see me being unhooked and walking down the stairs thanks to my white robes. I'll mention it tonight.

So, on came the legendary suit - keeping my head mic on this time to help pick up the sound as I dance about the stage. There were one or two slips ups in the number (Mandy - keep singing love, you're not done yet! ;-) ), but I think we got away with it on our "attitude"!

"The crucifixion"...I don't need to say anything about this. It was what it was...what it always is. So moving. The cast all in tears. The audience in stunned silence. What a show.

As the last note finished, Keith walked off. The audience seemd to sit transfixed for an eternity, before the house lights came on and people got the idea that this was it - the end. There was some mix up over when Pete was to be brought down - some people were still in the audience and Geoff wasn't pleased, but I guess tis won't happen again.


So...that was it. A dream come true. I can't really believe it happened. It all went so quickly, and so well, but crikey, it was so amazing. It sounds like David Peasgood was in doing a review for the Telegraph, so we will all be waiting to see what he has to say about it.

We all went to The Lynton for a drink and a buffet after, which was really good - a fairly quiet affair, but it was nice to wind down after our first successful performance. Here's to 5 more!

If you've got any comments about last night's performance that you want to share, click here to add them, or email me.

Draining Dress Rehearsal

Well, that was that. The final rehearsal before the curtain goes up tonight at 7:45. Help! :-0

The dress rehearsal went well in general. The only main problems were sound (the band can't be heard too well on the stage) and people being seen in the wings. Not insurmountable problems I don't think. Hopefully they will crank up the sound from the monitors on the stage, so the chorus can hear what the band are playing in the big numbers.

As for my performance, I felt it was OK...my voice was not as good as it could have been - I just dry up so quickly on this stage. I am drinking lots of water and sucking on throat sweets before I go on, but within a minute my throat is dry as a bone again. Also, my stomach is still feeling a bit empty after my sickness on Saturday, so my diphragm breathing is all a bit to pot. Hopefully that will improve over the next 24 hours.

So, a quick run-down...(not as long as yesterday's entry I promise!)

"Heaven" was okay...my voice cracked a bit at the final "sour", but I felt my movement was better this time - no falling off the steps!

"What's The Buzz?" and "Everything's Alright" were both good.

"This Jesus Must Die" sounded fine, although I was up in the changing room gulping down water at this point.

"Hosanna" worked a lot better this time. Pete seemed to be in place without having to sprint.

"Simon Zealotes" - James seemed to fly past even faster than before...I hope he doesnt ever trip, coz he'll take a hell of a tumble. Sounded good tho.

"Pilate's Dream" - didn't hear it unfortunately - more water!

"The Temple" - looked great again. There's a nice bit before the lepers where Jesus has screamed "Get out!" and the people disperse. He sings "My time is almost through..." in a spotlight on the floor and I move to stand in the centre of the balcony. It looks like I may come down to comfort him, then the lepers appear, so I move off. Simple but effective (I hope)

"I don't know.." was great as usual. Caroline just has to make sure she lays Pete down in the pool of red light on the stairs.

"Damned..." was a strain on the voice - it's always been my nemesis and if I'm not on top form, it's the one that always gets me. But I think I managed to just about pull it off. We had to re-do the ending as the bag of coins was descending, but I couldn't see it, so we had to shift things around a bit (Need a bigger, shinier bag!). I also need to keep an eye on the lights as I go up the steps, and stay in my pose till the blood red fades to black. Nice!

In the interval we practiced getting me off from the hanging. When we did it on Saturday there was no handrail on the set, so I could be taken straight off into the wings. Now there is a handrail in the way, so I have to have someone to catch me at the edge of the set and unhook me so I can get down the stairs.

"The Last Supper" had real bread and real ribena! (Had to change the words to "Wine" coz "pool of Ribena" doesn't rhyme with "life is fine"! :o) )

"Gethsemane" - only heard a bit of this, but it was outstanding as usual. More water!

"The Arrest" was okay, although the individual singers ("Tell me Christ..." etc) struggled to keep in time - hopefully increased volume on the stage monitors will help this. And Annas looked up at me on his line "Judas, thanks you for the victim" - nice one Gary. Followed by a brief glance from Pete as well. Nice touch mate.

"Pilate and Christ" - again, I missed most of this, and "Herod's Song" unfortunately (good to see the Harem girls get their costumes at last! ;-) )

"Could we start.." was beautiful as ever. I think I'll have to make my entrance after this from the front stairs as I am fighting to get on past the apostles.

"Judas' Death". Well, I milked it a bit more than last night, hopefully the band got to play their extra few bars! I just love this scene. It's so harrowing, but so exciting to do. I really can't wait to get the noose round my neck and step off. We are supposed to have a blackout so I can get down without being seen too much, but that never quite worked out, so I ended up running into Jesus as he was coming up the stairs - not ideal. Hopefully I'll have time to get down beofre he comes up tonight. I was totally shattered after doing this and really just felt like going and collapsing in the dressing room, but I have very little time to get changed for "Superstar", so I had to dig deep for some more energy.

On came the legendary suit for "Superstar", I swapped my mic over and sprinted over to the other side of the stage to get up to the top back door. I think I'll have to devise a better plan for getting there in time, coz I was even more knackered by the time I got in position! But anyway, I managed to find a reserve of energy and adreneline and did an even more funky performance than before. My voice wasn't great and had virtually disappeared by the end, but I think the performance maybe distracted a bit from the vocal inadequacies. At the end of the night Geoff suggested I give it even more - handsprings, the splits, pelvic thrusts! Not sure about the first two, but I may be able to manage the last one. I just feel sorry for the poor folks in the stalls!

And I'm sorry to say I never saw "The crucifixion". I was in the dressing room in my shorts with a towel over my head thinking "can I really do this every night?". Of course, I know that I can and I will. I think it might take me a while to recover afterwards tho.

And so that is it. Tonight is opening night. I think we're ready. I certainly am. I need an audience now. I just now this is going to be amazing...my dream finally coming true.

Top Tech Rehearsal

Better get comfy, this is a long one!

To say last night was our fist time on set, I think it went really well. I was still feeling a bit shaky when I arrived and it took me till half-way through the first act to really get going, but then the adrenaline kicked in and I felt fine. Everyone was very concerned for me (thanks folks) and it sounds like whatever me and the kids had is doing the rounds. I just hope it doesn't strike anyone else down this week.

We started off by adapting some of the big numbers to the new set - "Hosanna", "Simon Zealotes" and "The Temple" all needed a little re-work due to the change in the working space. The set is in a kind of pyramid shape, and we have steps up to a platform at the top. This means that, where we had people dancing in a line at the back of the stage, they now have to do it on the stairs - not easy! But Geoff and Julie worked it all out and I think it will be OK.

So, then we began. I wasn't quite sure how I was going to get on. I hadn't sung properly since Wednesday night, having missed yesterday's band call. I was a little shaky at first, but I think I got better as I got on with "Heaven...". It was good having the set to explore in this one, although I did nearly fall off a step as I tried to casually sit down! What a muppet! I've got to get used to sitting down in these robes...

As I finished and "What's The Buzz" started, I dash off up to the top of the set to look down in disdain. Again, the movement for this number had to be changed slightly, to fit round the stage, but it wasn't a problem. With the lights going mad at the top of the "pyramid", this is sure to be a great opening number for the chorus.

After wandering down the steps to confront Jesus in "Strange thing mystifying", I wander back up again and plonk myself down on a step during "Everything's Alright". I come back down onto the flat to confront Mary about her "fine ointments, brand new and expensive", following her and Jesus off at the end of the song. I was pleased I managed to hit my "feet and hair" OK, as that is a bit of a test for how my voice is going to be.

On come the priests, sounding great as usual in "This Jesus Must Die". They start lining the top of the set, then gradually work their way down, before returning to the top for "Hosanna". This is a bit of an odd one, as most of the singers are out in the auditorium waving their palm leaves. It's only when they reach the stage that we'll really get the sound right I think. Pete had a real sprint to try to get to the back of the stage in time for his line, but still couldn't get through as the door was locked! Oops...

I'm still hanging around during all this (not literally, that comes later...!). And I'm left on stage on my own during the lighting change for "Simon Zealotes". As this one starts, out come all the chorus, cheering and dancing across the front of the stage and up into positions for another big number. James looked great in this one - really funky! - and did a death-defying charge up round and down the steps.

After this is was all off as David comes on for "Pilate's Dream". I didn't get to see this, but it sounded good. We're then all back on again for "The Temple". This works well now we have real tables, although with the angle they are at, it is a struggle to not leave a gap inbetween the two groups of "buyers". As Jesus comes in and yells "My temple should be a house of prayer!" he tips up the tables, breaking one in the process (oops!). This looked and sounded great. Pete was on form and just seeing it all from my viewpoint at the top made me appreciate what a good scene it is.

Then on come the lepers. This looks amazing. The starting 8 all look fantastic in their "special" costumes, and the rest coming stumbling on in their rags look so effective. And when they start appearing from the top of the stage as well, it's really quite spooky. I'm looking quite concerned at this point, having crossed over to the other side of the balcony, taking in the scene developing below me. Then, at the climactic "Heal yourselves!", on comes Mary to lay Jesus down, head on the bottom step, while she sings "I Don't Know How To Love Him". This sounded really good and I sat on the top step, looking fed up as I listened (you've noticed I do a lot of that!).

At the end of this, I make my way down to the bottom of the steps. I thought It would look good if I crouched down near to Mary and Jesus until they woke up and saw me there, and I think it worked OK. Mary leads Jesus off and I finally give in and go see the Priests. "Damned for all Time" went well I think. I had to keep an ear out in the middle section as I heard someone playing the saxophone solo, which we've never really had before. I think I just managed to get in in time! Geoff reworked the ending a bit, and it seems to be a hit. I take the money from the wire as it descends, then go off to the top of the stage and hold it up, silhouetted by the blood-red lights behind me. Everyone said it looked great.

So, end of Act 1 and we had a short break, during which I got my hanging harness on.

"The Last Supper" was better for having the table, cups and plates for the Apostles to work with. The argument went well and it was nice to had the width of the stage for me to run off.

"Gethsemane" was just totally awesome. I watched from the wings and, at this point, I know the audience are just going to be totally blown away. I certainly was and, by the huge applause he got at the end, I think everyone else was too.

So, on I come to spoil the party again with my Judas kiss and "The Arrest". I tried to make a bit more of this, now we have the band waiting on us, by collapsing onto Pete's shoulder and clinging onto his arm as he turns away. I then watch on from the side of the stage as he is taken away. After being taken before the Priests, he's sent off to see Pilate, at which point I leave the stage.

I only caught a glimpse of "Pilate and Christ", but it looked really good. David is resplendant in his robes, and Pete looks suitable haggard in his simple white gown.

So, then comes "Herod's Song". Steve looked fantastic - he's got a different costume and a great wig and his voice was sounding much better. I know the audience is going to love this. There was no chaise-longue for him - don't know if that's been scrapped - but he did a fine job of improvising with the set, and the dancing girls were great as usual.

"Could we start again please?" was sung beautifully by Caroline and Tom. It's a great way to settle the audience down again after Steve's shenanigans, before I come and cause another rumpus. The cross effect with the two lines of men and women worked Ok too, although not quite the same as it was in rehearsals, it still looked very effective.

So then, the bit I had been looking forward to all night. On I charge..."My god, I saw him!". I just lost myself in this, but I couldn't wait to get to the top of the stage. It seems strange to think that the pinacle of my stage "career" is hanging myself, but I know this is the biggest thing I will ever do on stage, and this is my defining moment. And god, was it good?! I knew it looked real when I heard the gasps and shouts from the audience. If I can get that reaction from a full auditorium, then I will be happy. Keith had to sort out the music at the end of it as I had been a bit quick to jump. At this point I got a really big clap from everyone, which just made it even better.

I then had a sprint up to the dressing room to change for "Superstar" - yes that lovely purple cat suit came out again (settle down ladies!! ;o) ). I picked up my stick mic and ran round to the top door of the set just in time for my entrance. On I come, doing my thing at the top of the stage, then coming down to the flat, skipping and dancing about a bit, getting funky round the stage with my Sould Girls, then ending up in the centre for the big finish. I think this wsa great and the Soul Girls just get better every time.

And so that was me finished. I went up to the back of the auditorium to watch "The Crucifixion". I can't really find any words to describe how this looks. Pete is amazing...truly amazing. He is Jesus and he is dead on the cross. It looks that real.


So, overall I think it was a good Tech rehearsal. We got through it without any major hiccups. Geoff only had a few issues, noting too major, and Keith asked if more people can sing in the wings. I had noticed this was lacking as well, and we really need it in some numbers.

I had got through the night without feeling ill, now just feeling very hungry! Dress rehearsal tonight...let's hope it's even better than last night.

Just hanging about and feeling ill

Went to the Auditorium yesterday to be instructed in the use of my hanging equipment. I think it's going to look pretty good. The harness I have to wear is fairly simple and not too uncomfortable. It's only when I actually hang in it that it constricts me somewhat. I just hope I'm not left hanging for too long, or I'll have no trouble reaching those high notes!

The set was going up really well. It looks fantastic and will blow everyone away when it all gets lit up I reckon. We called in to see it in the afternoon with the kids and they were quite impressed.

I'm supposed to be at a band call this morning, but, having spent 5 hours being sick last night, I wasn't really in much of a state to go and sing first thing. I'm just hoping I've got some strength back for tonight's rehearsal. Think I'll have to take it steady.

Judas is in the building!

What a night!

I arrived at rehearsal to find the hall full of people trying on costumes. Geoff called me over to see my "Superstar" outfit. Oh! My! God! It's a purple and gold cat-suit, with a high collar and a gold cape (think Elvis - Las Vegas stylee). Well, I couldn't believe my eyes. This was not at all what I had expected! I went off to find the rest of my costume, but failed - it appeared they had not sent my "apostle" outfit, so I was a bit miffed. Everyone else seemed to have theirs and looked really good, but mine just was nowhere to be seen. :o(

So, I took the plunge and tried on my purple creation. It's quite snug! Doesn't leave much to the imagination in certain areas, and I'm a bit restricted in movement - lifting my arms above waist height will cut me in half! Ah, the things you do for your art! Anyway, you can imagine the comments from the rest of the cast. It's wild and outrageous, but it kind of fits for the number.

Not too sure about the Soul Girls outfits. I think we had all imagined something quite funky, but they seem to be dressed as university graduates, complete with floppy mortar boards. They look very smart, but not quite what I had imagined the Soul Girls to be wearing, and I'm not sure they go with my outrageous outfit. Oh well, ours is not to reason why...

Pete has a nice selection of white robes, which he gradually sheds until he's left in his "loin-cloth"...it's a good job he's so skinny coz there's no room for a beer belly in that outfit either!

So, I hastily discarded my Elvis outfit and we started on a run-through with the band. The 3 swanky keyboards had arrived and we had drums, trumpet, and electric guitars. Now it has really started to sound like the real thing. The band are gonna be amazing, I reckon. It's going to take them a little time to get used to the keyboards, but I know it's going to be great.

I had to concentrate really hard when singing to keep in tune. The band were very loud and the microphones seemed to be very quiet, so I was struggling to make myself heard. In the end we got the levels right and it became a bit easier. It was so nice to have the proper orchestrations for moments like the end of Act 1 ("On Thursday night...") and "Judas' Death". it makes it so much easier to act with the proper accompaniment.

It was great to hear Steve's voice had improved even further. It looks like he will be OK for next week, which is excellent news.

I stayed in my normal clothes till I had "died", then thought I'd better don my outfit for "Superstar". I'm not sure how I'm going to manage the aerial acrobatics Geoff has in mind while wearing this costume...I'll have to see how I get on when I have the rope to play with. Anyway, "Superstar" was fun - good job I'm not a shy person!

Curiously, when I had finished, my other costume turned up - a simple white robe and black overcoat-type-thing. I don't know where it materialised from as I checked every pile several times, but not to worry. It fits OK and is somewhat less revealing that my other one! (probably a good thing!)

And so that was that. No proper rehearsal now till Sunday night. I'm going to the Auditorium on Saturday afternoon to check out the hanging rig with the guy who's fixing it up...should be interesting. Then there's a band call on Sunday morning, which I'll have to go to - I need more practice singing with them. Then it's a full gathering on Sunday night, with the set.

I can't believe it's nearly here now - 5 days! Argh!

My best Heaven

It was a good solid rehearsal on monday night, taking the usual format of run-through, followed by pick-ups for the chorus.

Apparently my "Heaven on their minds" was the best I have sung it, which was nice to hear. I've always felt that this has been glossed over a bit previously, as it leads straight into "What's the Buzz?" and everyone is focussing on getting ready for that. So it was good to get some positive feedback.

Everything mostly went well...Pete was in fine voice, and remembered his words(!).

It was good to hear Steve having just enough voice to sing his song. It was still little more than a whisper, but at least it's progress. I really hope he gets better by Tuesday.

I spent the night bare-foot as that's how I'll be for the performance... I hope the stage floor is warmer than the floor of the Memorial Hall - my feet were frozen!

The costumes are arriving tonight, along with the band (complete with the 3 posh keyboards!) so we get to collect our costumes, then we'll do a run-though with the band, which should be great.

I can't beleive it's less than a week to go now. This has been by life for the last 6 months and in a few days it will all be over. It's going to be pretty wierd...