Broadway shows make stops at Center

Lolita Harper

Religious icons, flowers and great plains all come together for an

exciting and unparalleled theater series at the Orange County

Performing Arts Center.

The Center announced this week its 2003-04 Bank of America

Broadway series, which includes masterpieces such as “Jesus Christ

Superstar,” “Flower Drum Song,” “Urinetown” and “Oklahoma!”

Center President Jerry Mandel said it is a well-rounded season,

with a little bit of everything.

“This is the best balanced season we have ever had,” Mandel said.

“There is literally something for everyone in this season’s Broadway.

I am very excited about it.”

Center officials always strive to put together a season that

appeals to a wide variety of patrons, he said. This season has a

little of everything with new musicals , revivals and plays for

children.

Then, of course, there is “The Producers,” the new Mel Brooks

musical, which “everybody loves,” Mandel said.

The blockbuster season opens with Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd

Webber’s “Jesus Christ Superstar,” which chronicles the last days in

the life of Jesus of Nazareth, as seen through the eyes of

disillusioned disciple Judas Iscariot.

The series probably counts more Tony Awards and nominations than

there are lights in a Broadway theater marquee, officials said.

Season ticket prices range from $200 to $433 and can be bought by

calling (714) 556-ARTS or visit the Center Web site at www.ocpac.org.

* LOLITA HARPER writes columns Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and

covers culture and the arts. She may be reached at (949) 574-4275 or

by e-mail at [email protected].