Spotlight On: Melissa Rand

 

 

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

 

 

 

Introduce yourself to our audience.

My name is Melissa Rand and I’m part of the ensemble of the show as well as the core dance group. JCS is my second show with CTC, although I’m no stranger to theatre and have been performing in shows since I was 8. 

 

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?

There are a few times throughout the show where I’m singing really high (listen out for them), so it’s really important that I warm up my upper register thoroughly so I don’t strain my voice. As we get into tech week and the shows, I’ll be adding in tea with honey to keep everything warm and feeling good. 

 

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?

The complex, dynamic choreography put together by our amazing choreographer, Kim, really helps to keep me dialed into the energy for each song. The movements complement the lyrics and allow me to use my entire body to express the drama of each number. 

 

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 think the messages of power and betrayal still resonate today and draw the audience in, despite the biblical nature of the story. Plus, the flexibility you have with this show to set it in any era further strengthens the connection with modern audiences. 

 

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 can see how the show would be controversial, but there hasn’t been any concern or debate amongst the cast. There’s really been such comradery and shared passion between us all. 

 

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?

It’s a lot of hyping each other up and supporting one another. This really is an ensemble show and we all come together and push each other to deliver. 

 

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

It can be tough, but I love doing theatre. To me, the time spent rehearsing and performing is a big stress reliever and a lot of fun. So I make time! It also helps to have an incredibly supportive husband! 😉

 

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

Everyone is really positive and supportive; we hype each other up, celebrate one another, and joke together. For the dancers, we really bonded quickly while working on tough choreography and helping each other learn and finesse our movements. 

 

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?