Vero Beach’s renowned Riverside Theatre is set to electrify the Treasure Coast this season with a major production of the legendary rock opera, Jesus Christ Superstar. Under the leadership of Executive Producer/CEO Jon R. Moses and Artistic Director Allen Cornell, the theatre will present Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s groundbreaking musical on the Stark Stage from February 26 through March 22, 2026.
This ambitious production promises to be a highlight of the 2026 cultural calendar in Indian River County. The musical, which originally began as a concept album in 1970 before taking Broadway by storm in 1971, reimagines the final days of Jesus of Nazareth entirely through the eyes of Judas Iscariot.
Event Snapshot: Jesus Christ Superstar explores the personal relationships and political pressures surrounding one of history’s most pivotal moments, blending ancient drama with a propulsive, contemporary rock score.
The show is celebrated worldwide for its intense emotional depth and iconic musical numbers, including “Superstar,” “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” and “Heaven on Their Minds.” After its original Broadway run—which earned five Tony Award nominations—and a record-breaking eight-year run in London’s West End, the show continues to resonate with audiences across generations.
A Stellar Creative Team and Cast
Riverside Theatre’s production is directed and scenically designed by Allen D. Cornell. The creative team also includes DJ Salisbury (Associate Director), Jennifer Lee Crowl (Choreographer), and Andrew H. Austin (Music Director), ensuring a high-quality theatrical experience synonymous with Riverside’s reputation.
The cast features a talented lineup of performers taking on these iconic roles:
- Cole Thannisch as Jesus
- David Toole as Judas
- Ruby Lewis as Mary Magdalene
- P.J. Griffith as Pilate
- Nicholas Ward as Caiaphas
- Nick Berninger as Annas
- Reese Sebastian Diaz as Peter
- Matthew Hugh Diston as Simon
- Craig Waletzko as King Herod
The ensemble cast also includes Mikayla Agrella, Randy M. Cain, Cooper Clack, Christopher deProphetis, Rick Faugno, Kris Ivy Hanes, John Alejandro Jeffords, Sheila Jones, Lily Kren, Jacquelyne Paige, Bianca G. Rivera-Irions, Crystal Sha’nae, Damien DeShaun Smith, Adam Tabellija, Austin Turner, and Channing Weir.
Sponsors and Community Support
The production is made possible through the generous support of local sponsors, including the Corrigan-Goddard Foundation, Edward & Dawn Michael, James & Priscilla Morphy, Baerbel O’Haire – Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, and Riverside’s 2025–2026 Patron Producers Group.
Ticket and Schedule Information
Tickets for Jesus Christ Superstar start as low as $50. Performances are scheduled to accommodate various lifestyles, with evening shows and matinees available throughout the run:
- Evenings: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 7:30 pm; Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm.
- Matinees: Wednesdays, select Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 2:00 pm.
Preview performances will take place from February 26 through March 1, with the official Opening Night set for March 3 at 7:30 pm.
Residents and visitors can purchase tickets by calling the Riverside Theatre Box Office at 772-231-6990 or by reserving seats online at the official Riverside Theatre website.
