Up North and Down South 

The title role in Jesus Christ Superstar was neither the first nor the last major part in a musical or movie for Ted Neeley, as he had a record deal at 22, played the lead role of Claude in both the New York and Los Angeles productions of the breakthrough rock musical Hair, and later starred as Tommy in the staging of The Who’s rock opera. But it was taking on Jesus that propelled Neeley and his huge and theatrical voice to stardom, both on stage and in the 1973 film. In recent decades, though, Neeley has adopted Ventura’s Rubicon Theatre Company (RTC) as his “home theater,” playing there in concerts with his band, appearing in musicals, and performing at benefits. 

He returns to once again support RTC Sunday, September 19th, to celebrate his 80th birthday with a night of events that include a special screening of the 2021 Superstars: The Documentary (Extended Version) introduced by Neeley, photo ops, dinners, and post-screening receptions. Visit www.rubicontheatre.org. 

Head over the hills into Ojai for separate shows with Neeley contemporaries Micky Dolenz of The Monkees and Don (“American Pie”) McLean at Libbey Bowl on September 15 and 16, respectively, where each will actually be performing. 

In the other direction, country singer-songwriter superstar Dustin Lynch, whose top hits include “Where’s It At,” “Small Town Boy” and “Ridin’ Roads,” plays the Chumash Casino Resort on September 15… The Central Coast Flute Circle hosts an All Clans Flute Gathering at Sunburst Sanctuary as a potluck and performance for Native American flute players and friends, on September 16. Musicians and others are invited to join in or just listen. Visit https://sunburst.org/upcoming.