Spotlight On: Jalon Copeland

 

 

Connecticut Theatre Company’s “Spotlight On…” series continues with a look into the cast of Jesus Christ Superstar. Get to know Jalon Copeland who is portraying Judas Iscariot in our production!

 

 

 

Introduce yourself to our audience.

Hi I’m Jalon Copeland from Waterbury, CT and I’m playing as Judas Iscariot for this production of Jesus Christ Superstar.

 

The score for Jesus Christ Superstar is notoriously taxing. What are your specific vocal warm-up routines or rest-day rituals to maintain your voice?

For me, I hum the songs to myself every chance I get or listen to the soundtracks while doing other activities. 

 

This show is largely a non-stop, sung-through rock rollercoaster. How do you maintain the dramatic arc and emotional stamina from the overture to the curtain call?

I try to stay calm and collected. A couple of breaths helps out alot as well, I’ll always be a little nervous but, the show must go on! Its definitely an emotional rollercoaster through and through.

 

The musical has been thrilling audiences for over 50 years. What do you think makes this sung-through rock opera still feel contemporary and relevant to modern audiences?

I believe its the topic itself. This story is being told in a way, versus the movies and other stages, where it captures the reason why the events happened the way they did. Its going to be a little controversial worldwide, but isn’t that what art is? 

 

Historically, this show has faced protests and intense debate regarding its content. Does that legacy of controversy cross the cast’s mind today, or has the cultural perception completely shifted?

I questioned it a little bit. I know the story as many people do. I strongly believe the cultural perception has definitely shifted drastically. They literally had a live version that was broadcasted on television a few years ago with John Legend and more recently with Cynthia Erivo and Adam Lambert at the Hollywood bowl in LA. All over the world has done this production. Times has definitely changed, if it hadn’t then where would this show be now?

 

From the opening overture to the final curtain, the show rarely stops for a breath. What is the rehearsal environment like trying to maintain that high-octane energy?

The energy from this cast is AMAZING! Everyone is kind and generous. We lock in during rehearsals and their voices are crazily good. I’m pretty speechless with how chill everyone is.

 

How do you balance full-time jobs, school, or family commitments with an intense community theater rehearsal schedule?

I try my best to balance out everything with all of my responsibilities to the best of my ability. Life itself is an intense schedule which gives me the opportunity to grow and be adaptive.

 

Community theater casts often become incredibly tight-knit very quickly. How did this specific cast build its chemistry and trust during rehearsals?

Its with communication, dedication, and trusting the cast members with there roles. Everyone’s energy is what creates the chemistry between one another. 

 

When local theatergoers leave the venue and head to their cars, what is the main conversation or feeling you hope they take home with them?