Last Sunday was a special day. It was the second coming of Jesus. In Hollywood, right on Melrose Ave. Did you miss it? Don’t worry, you still have two more chances. But how was it? Was it indeed a religious experience? Well…
Jesus (JD Mata) came down to Earth to deconstruct the image people have built around his persona over the years. God (Evan McNamara) joined him for an honest and revealing conversation. There was music, too. The party got some traction and soon enough, Mary Magdalene (Alexandra Fragoso) showed up. According to Pope Gregory, she was a prostitute. But on Sunday night, she dressed up rather conservatively; no fishnets, no six-inch fluorescent heels. Was she really a woman of dubious reputation back in Magdala? What kind of relationship did she have with Jesus? Dirty minds have come up with different versions over the years. But don’t pay attention to fake news. Hear it directly from her; she’s eager to explain.
One of the Three Wise Men (Jack Little) also joined the conversation. How did they find infant Jesus? Was it a star? Polaris, a comet? The Wise Man will tell you, with music, of course. but the explanations wouldn’t be complete without God and Satan telling their side of the story. They also have some sense of rhythm. By the way, what’s up with the image of Jesus, tall, blonde, blue-eyed, like an Italian model on the cover of a fashion magazine? Are we missing something here?
What if everything they told you about these biblical characters is not exactly accurate? Is God really, really good? Is Satan really, really bad? And don’t get me started with the death toll. It’s revolving, never-ending. Team God vs Team Satan. Why is God in white but Satan in red?
Billy Threadgold‘s script is thoughtful, controversial, defiant, but never boring. The cast will keep you entertained and engaged, whether you believe in the Holly Scriptures or you don’t give a continental damn, just make sure you like comedy and pop songs.
So, let your prejudices at the door and come with an open mind. This show might turn your world upside-down, but at least you hear it directly from the protagonists. Who would’ve thought that blasphemy could be so much fun?
Jesus Live!
Stephanie Feury Studio
5636 Melrose Ave,
Los Angeles, CA 90038
June 14 @ 5:30 PM
June 19 @ 8:00 PM
June 25 @ 8:00 PM
Tickets: hollywoodfringe.org/projects/14404
Written and executive produced by Billy Threadgold
Directed by John Coppola
Cast: JD Mata, Alexandra Fragoso, Evan McNamara, Jack Little
Creative team: Matthew Quinn, consulting producer. David Carbonara, Composer. Bertha Rodriguez, Casting/Marketing. Ron Barnett, Music Director. Spencer Frankeberger, Tech Operator. Michelle Vasquez, stage manager. Jenna Morris, Costume.
