Spotlight On: Piper Stepule

 

 

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

 

 

 

Introduce yourself to our audience.

Howdy doody!!!!!!!!!!! I am Piper! This is my second show with CTC.

 

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?

STRETCH. YOUR. TONGUE. Stick it out as far as you can to relieve tension in your throat. I do not sing before doing this. Especially since this is my first time singing soprano in a show, it’s important for me because it helps me hit higher notes much more easily.

 

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?

That…. I haven’t figured out yet. LOL. But with every rehearsal i am able to make more and more conscious choices to maintain the drama despite gasping for air during the dances.

 

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 this show makes the story far more accessible to people who might find it intimidating. The streetwear aesthetic with the rock music – something often thought of as “the devil’s music” – appeals to a much wider audience and helps disprove a lot of stereotypes that come along with the bible. 

 

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?

Yikes, imagine if those people found out our Jesus is a female-presenting person…… None of that has ever crossed my mind, but I can see where people would have issues. The bible told in the style of the devil’s music?!?!? Realistically though, I think it is very uncomfortable for ANYONE to see a crowd of people screaming that Jesus should be crucified. Regardless of who’s on trial. 

 

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?

A good goofy break. A moment to giggle about something and be silly has been integral for me to not lose steam during the run. There’s also nothing more energizing than nailing a dance, so the adrenaline just keeps going and going.

 

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

Not well!!! LOL. My apartment is a disaster. With a full-time job and a fresh baby niece, the balance is difficult, but so worth it. 

 

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

There is NOTHING that bonds people than being deliriously tired together. Many of the dancers became pretty close because of how tired we were after 3 hour dance rehearsals. As the night went on and our brains dove deeper and deeper into the deep fryer, that’s when people become the most real versions of themselves. That’s when you know you are truly surrounded by kind and supportive people. And I’ve been lucky enough to have that experience with this ensemble. 

 

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?