Jesus Christ Superstar (1973) + Talk with Dr. Richard Ascough

This event is presented by the Cinema Society of Kingston and Queen’s School of Religion.

There will also be a “screening only” (with no talk) of Jesus Christ Superstar on Easter Sunday (March 31 @ 7pm.)

Join us on Easter Weekend for a special screening of Norman Jewison’s wildly original musical, accompanied by a talk & discussion from Dr. Richard Ascough (Professor of Christian Origins, Queen’s School of Religion).

Adapted from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Broadway rock opera, “Jesus Christ Superstar” recounts the last days of Jesus Christ (Ted Neeley) from the perspective of Judas Iscariot (Carl Anderson), his betrayer. As Jesus’ following increases, Judas begins to worry that Jesus is falling for his own hype, forgetting the principles of his teachings and growing too close to the prostitute Mary Magdalene (Yvonne Elliman). After Jesus has an outburst in a temple, Judas turns on him.

Richard Ascough is a Professor in the School of Religion at Queen’s University. His research and teaching focuses on the history of early Christianity and Greco-Roman religious cultures; his work is part of a larger movement that is exploring modern theories of Christian origins. He has been recognized for his innovative and effective teaching in many ways, including the two top teaching awards at Queen’s University and a 3M National Teaching Fellowship. He also teaches courses on “Religion and Film”… so naturally, we’re thrilled to have him speak at The Screening Room!