Jesus Christ Superstar comes to Moscow
Jesus Christ Superstar came to Moscow for a one night only performance in St Andrew’s Anglican Church, in aid of the building’s restoration fund. On 2 April, Stas Namin Theatre staged Jesus Christ Superstar, the cult rock opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, featuring The Flowers. The closest version to the original recording released in 1970, this production was the first in the world to be accepted on stages in Jerusalem.
The Flowers achieved nationwide popularity for founder Stas Namin and his band via record label Melodia. Nearly all the songs over the group’s first 20 years were recorded in their studio at the “kirche”, as it was known during Soviet times and before it was returned to the Anglican Church. It is on account of this history that Stas Namin: legendary musician, composer, stage director, producer and artist - has engaged in the campaign to restore St Andrew’s, tasked with raising $350,000 by Easter, in order to unlock $2.5m from the city.
St Andrew’s neighbour Courtyard by Marriott Moscow City Centre rose to the occasion with a pre-show champagne reception, which took place in the church as guests gathered. There were 150 Russians and expatriates for whom the church plays an important part in their lives and others who jumped at the chance of a unique opportunity to see the musical performed in a church, in Moscow.
About $7000 was raised by the event.
"Both thoughtful and generous gestures attracted attention and funds, for which the church is extremely grateful" said St Andrew's Chaplain, The Revd Canon Malcolm Rogers.
For details about how you can contribute, please see the Church website at https://moscowanglican.org
Stas Namin and Marriott Moscow City websites can be found at:
https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/mowcy-courtyard-moscow-city-cent…
