Spotlight On: Aditi Verma

 

 

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

 

 

 

Introduce yourself to our audience.

Hi! I’m Aditi Verma, and I’m one of the Soul Girls as well as one of the dance captains! I’ve been performing and doing theater for about 11 years now, and I’m very excited to be in my first CTC show!

 

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?

I usually try to focus on full range vocal warm-ups including lip trills and vowel sounds, and on show days I always use a nebulizer to steam my voice.

 

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 get to play a lot of characters and representations in this show, so the context behind each song and the character changes all help me drive my arc throughout the show. I also try to always stay as energetic as possible to push myself until the end!

 

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?

This show is incredible and is such a unique retelling of the story. The music definitely keeps everything contemporary, since the show is portrayed through energetic, intense rock music which has been relevant in theater and mainstream media for a long time (gotta love ALW and his electric guitar). I also think it’s a great depiction of how perspective can quickly change a narrative and the way someone is viewed.

 

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 think it’s something that people will always be aware of, as it’s a big part of the show’s history. There’s also always going to be a lot of varying opinions on the content of the show, especially having it through Judas’ eyes. However, I think more audiences today see this show as another interpretation of the well-known story rather than being a replacement for it, and there’s a much wider general acceptance.

 

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 cast and crew are all really supportive and great at keeping the energy up, and everyone really keeps each other on track backstage. Sometimes we’re reviewing choreography before certain numbers, or simply reminding people what song comes next. It helps everyone stay active and keeps us all upbeat! 

 

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

We have a nice rehearsal schedule with most rehearsals being towards the evening, so I’m able to plan my other commitments during the day. We also have some days off in the week which I use to catch up on some work and spend time with my friends and family.

 

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

From day one, the cast was super welcoming to each other. It was really easy to talk to everyone and we all bonded very quickly, especially since we spent so much time with each other. Everyone is so supportive of each other and is genuinely happy to be there. Loads of love to this cast!

 

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?