Spotlight On: Brian Michael Lopez

 

 

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

 

 

 

Introduce yourself to our audience.

My name is BrianMichael Lopez. I’m part of the ensemble of Jesus Christ Superstar in my first show with Connecticut Theater Company.

 

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?

My specific vocal warm up routines involve scales, singing along to Marc Anthony because his songs are very rangy; singing along to Finishing The Hat from Sunday in the Park with George and Kiss of the Spider Woman.

 

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 maintain the dramatic arc from the beginning to the end of the show by reminding myself of how much Jesus’s story and him as a historical figure means to billions of people in the world. It’s also important to know what emotion to tap into during each song as some numbers require a wide display of emotions ranging from excited, to sad to angry.

 

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?

The songs have stood the test of the time because they are that well written. And the story of Jesus will never die.

 

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 personally have thought about this during the show because I know a lot of religious people who are sensitive about stories written about Jesus but I think the songs are written so well that anyone can appreciate the message of the show regardless of how controversial it is. Historically, we can agree that Jesus was a real person who lived at some point & a lot people believe that the events of his life did happen. I think even the most religious person will and can enjoy this show.

 

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 is challenging so shout out to the dancers who are dancing and singing simultaneously for 2 hours.

 

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

This is the hard part because my job as a mailman is very physically demanding and I work in all types of dangerous weather conditions. I can say I’m exhausted juggling both but every time rehearsals begin, I wake up a bit. During an actual show, there’s so much adrenaline rushing through me that I forget how tiring the shows can be. They become pure enjoyment.

 

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

It’s been lovely being in a space with people who have the same interests. This is my second theater show. I’ve usually done pop competitions. Theater is a more relaxed inclusive environment which I appreciate. It’s been easy connecting with people.

 

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?