Spotlight On: Theresa Moscato

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

Introduce yourself to our audience.

Hi, I’m Theresa Moscato!

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?

Staying hydrated and not straining my voice during other times of the day.

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 suppose I play pretend. It’s what actors do, regardless of their methods, their experience, or their stage. It can be very difficult at times, especially with an emotionally charged show, such as JCS. I usually put it into an imagined character who never stops growing until closing night.

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?

Everyone can relate on some level. Whether it’s to one or more characters and/or the story itself (which does relate to problems we see on a daily basis all around the world). I would say it was one of the first “twisted tales” if you will. Taking someone (Judas) who many see as a traitor and villain and turning him into a concerned friend who unwillingly becomes part of the ultimate plan and the ultimate sacrifice.  We begin to see Judas as Jesus did: a dear friend who means well for everyone.

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’t speak for anyone but myself. I think it could definitely still be (and probably still is) considered controversial. I think it could go either way. I can only really speak for myself and I personally think it’s a beautiful retelling of one of the most popular stories in the world. It is a “remake” that gives the audience more to think about on a deeper level. Regardless of beliefs – Disney does it all the time. Leave JCS alone!

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?

I’m just having fun! And if I’m not, I’m faking it to at least try to maintain the appearance of maintaining that energy. Lol. And breathing when I can!

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

I do my best!

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

Everyone has been really friendly, easy to talk to, and supportive; and long-story-short: while theatre is an art, I really think theatre is a team sport. Everyone is there for a common goal. To have fun and make magic. Or in this case, dare I say, miracles! How can you do that if you can’t bond with your cast mates. You’ve gotta be a team player and it’s clear everyone in our cast is. 

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?

I hope they can have more open conversations and feel more freedom to question things they’ve been told not to question. I hope they feel that this retelling is just as important as the scripture that inspired it. Within all of the characters at the frontline of this story, not only Jesus. I hope they feel the joy, the terror, I hope they feel their inner activist. I hope they feel the betrayal, the guilt, the pain, the suffering, and (I know it’s a lot of feelings, stay with me, there’s just one more!) most importantly, and most powerful of all: I hope they feel the love. 

 

 

 

 

“Jesus Christ Superstar” opened on July 31st and runs through August 9th at Connecticut Theatre Company.  Tickets on sale now!

 

“Despite its biblical setting and characters, Jesus Christ Superstar feels strikingly relevant to modern audiences. At its core, the story delves into timeless human struggles — the cost of conviction, the burden of leadership, and the tension between faith and fame. In an age where celebrity culture and social media amplify every public figure’s rise and fall, Judas’s disillusionment and Jesus’s exhaustion under public scrutiny resonate more deeply than ever. Moreover, the show’s themes of political uncertainty, moral compromise, and the clash between individual conscience and authority mirror the dilemmas faced in today’s world.” — RACHEL WONG of Broadwayworld

 

“‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ is a glorious vocal showcase and an aching human drama.” —  EMIL HOFILENA of Theater Fans Manila

 

“Yet the star, all these years on, remains the musical itself.  Now that it no longer shocks, what strikes you is Lloyd Webber’s brilliant conceptual range – not a sentence I find myself writing often – as he innovates in styles ranging from gospel, hard rock, jazz, and funk through to folk, and contemporary classical.  Rice’s lyrics remain intelligently provocative too and still feel edgily political.” —  RACHEL HALLIBURTON of theartsdesk.com