Nantwich man Rob West takes leading role in Jesus Christ Superstar at Crewe’s Lyceum Theatre

Feb 2 2011 by Will Harris, Crewe Chronicle

“It’s the most demanding production we’ve taken on yet.”

That’s the verdict of Rob West, who is taking on his most challenging role so far.

The 20-year-old from Nantwich is the main man in Crewe Amateur Musicals Society’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar.

Rob has already appeared in numerous amateur productions in South Cheshire.

His first role was as Tin Man in the Wizard Of Oz at Malbank, which was followed by playing Emile de Becque in South Pacific and Billy Crocker in Anything Goes.

He was then in Scrooge with Acton Amateur Operatic Society and last year did Hello Dolly! with Crewe Amateur Musicals Society.

He also plays in local band The Lockdown, and will be heading for London in September after winning a place at a drama school.

But Rob, a former Malbank School pupil, has played down his importance in Jesus Christ Superstar, insisting it’s a team effort.

He says: “It’s a hard thing to do. Technically it’s an opera because there’s no spoken word at all. It’s all sung and the lead song in it is difficult because it’s incredibly high.

“But it’s not just Jesus who has the challenging songs, everyone has to perform, including the chorus.

“It’s physically demanding, we’ve got lepers and half-dying people as well who all have to get in their roles.

“It’s really enjoyable because it’s a challenge, but I think it’s bringing the best out of everyone.”

The show is to be performed at the Lyceum Theatre in Crewe in March, and rehearsals are being stepped up from two nights a week to three.

“We’ve progressed pretty quickly and the director seems happy with where we are,” says Rob.

“Act One is under the belt now so we’ve just got to do the hanging on the cross.

“Being on the cross kind of helps. I will be in a bit of pain just trying to hang on for dear life. I’ll have a tiny little stand to put my feet on and arms outstretched with ropes around my wrists.

“But at that point I’m nearly dead anyway so there’s not much singing for me to worry about.”

And of his half-naked hanging on the cross he adds: “I’ve been having to go to the gym to try and get my six-pack back. This Jesus is going to be buff!”

Jesus Christ Superstar is running at the Lyceum from March 14-19. Tickets are priced from £10-£14, to book phone the box office on 01270 537333 or visit www.lyceumtheatre.net