Musical theater major gains pro experience

A rock opera of biblical proportions, Jesus Christ Superstar is a modern, emotionally charged retelling of the days leading to Christ"s crucifixion. Tulane University junior Joshua Bernard is assistant director of the show that is taking the stage at Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carré opening Friday (Jan. 16.).

Bernard, a musical theater major, is aiding director Augustin Correro in reviving the timeless tale written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice with an ensemble of over 20 actors and musicians.

“The director's fervor and love for making a show come alive has been an invaluable learning experience for me.”—Joshua Bernard, musical theater major

“The director seeks to blow the dust off the gospel and give it a fresh look. It"s been an eye-opening experience,” said Bernard.

Bernard has participated in several Tulane productions, including Summer Lyric Theatre"s Les Miserables and Cabaret, and Woyzeck during New Orleans Fringe Festival.

Whether ensuring details are running smoothly onstage or hitting the books after class, Bernard balances his dual professional and academic responsibilities.

“I have to schedule critically. I do get help from wonderful professors who want to see me succeed,” said Bernard.

“The job of an assistant director is to be a second set of eyes and ears. Augustin has a very specific vision for the world of the show that he wants to see realized. However, he cannot watch everything that happens onstage at once. I look out for things that he may not catch,” said Bernard.

As a props designer, Bernard created several contraptions for the show, including electric batons composed of LED lights within foam casing wielded by actors portraying guards.

After Jesus Christ Superstar wraps, Bernard hopes to apply his experience working with Correro to his future theater endeavors.

“His fervor and love for making a show come alive has been an invaluable learning experience for me, especially since I would like to direct in the future,” Bernard said.