Studio Tenn’s production of “Jesus Christ Superstar” is at The Factory in Franklin from now until May 31. The legendary rock opera includes a cast of local professional actors alongside three Broadway stars in featured roles: Adam Pascal as Jesus, Mykal Kilgore as Judas and Olivia Valli as Mary Magdalene.  As this production closes the 16th season for Studio Tenn, we spoke with the new executive director of the organization Mark Fleischer.

“The heart of the American theater is these regional theaters in communities where they are made by their community, utilizing professional actors, creating shows that are responsive to their audiences,” he said.  “They are not imported, they are made. Almost like an artisanal bakery, as I tell people. That’s what excites me and I got to spend most of my life in Texas, but having moved around, it’s great to get in and figure out what the flavor is of each community.”

Fleischer continued, “The actors here and mixing with the people we bring in from out of town makes it incredible dynamic and makes it a theater community that is responsive and in conversation with its people, its audience, and its supporters. If you come to see Jesus Christ Superstar, you’ll see three amazing Broadway talents, but all these local performers are singing right along next to them. It’s that mix that I find very exciting.”

Additional event opportunities:

Starting tonight (May 13) Herbie Hancock performs at the Ryman and Mdou Moctar’s solo performance is at DRKMTTR. On Thursday (May 14) John-Robert with Nashville artist Nickname Jos is at the OG Basement and Friday night (May 15) Grace Ives performs at the Blue Room. Saturday (May 16) Bella White and Nashville’s Erin Rae take the stage at the Basement East and we wrap up this week’s listings Tuesday (May 19) with Chet Faker performing at Cannery Hall’s Mainstage.