BEFORE The Phantom of the Opera, Cats and Evita came Jesus Christ Superstar, the first blockbuster musical from the most successful theatrical composer of all time, Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber.

And Basingstoke Amateur Theatrical Society are to present the show for local audiences.

With lyrics by Tim Rice, Jesus Christ Superstar is a stunning show set during the last seven days of the life of Christ, seen through the eyes of the man who betrayed him – Judas.

Songs include the well-known ballads I Don’t Know How To Love Him and Everything’s Alright, the comic King Herod’s Song, the rock-influenced Heaven On Their Minds and, of course, the global hit Superstar.

A new generation has fallen in love with Jesus Christ Superstar, thanks to the ITV show Superstar which was dedicated to finding a lead actor for the recent sell-out arena tour of the musical, starring Tim Minchin, Melanie C and Chris Moyles.

For BATS, multi-award-winning director Ray Jeffery promises a colourful, dynamic and hugely emotional production, set in the era of flower power, a radical time when notions of faith and love were redefined.

Jesus is played by Jamie Trick whose beautiful voice does full justice to the fantastic range of songs. Judas is powerfully portrayed by Stephen Westwood and the heart-rending role of Mary Magdalene is played by Laura Newborough.

They are supported by more than 30 talented local performers.

The musical director is Rachel Glover and additional choreography is by Nick Brannam.

Six performances of Jesus Christ Superstar run from May 13 – 17 in The Haymarket.

Performances start at 7.30pm with a 2.30pm matinee on the Saturday.

Tickets are available now via bats.net, anvilarts.org.uk, call 01256 844244 or visit The Haymarket or Anvil Arts box offices.