The stage is set, the lights are shining, and the electrifying energy of Jesus Christ Superstar is ready to take over the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts. The iconic rock opera, which first captivated audiences in the early 1970s, officially opened on March 13, 2025, and will run through April 27.
In a recent interview with Potomac Local News Podcast, lead cast members Anthony Nuccio and Kylie Ernest shared their excitement about bringing this timeless production to the local stage. Nuccio, who plays Judas Iscariot, described Jesus Christ Superstar as a fully sung-through rock opera with no traditional dialogue breaks. âItâs an incredibly high-energy show that blends rock music with a powerful narrative,â he said. âAudiences can expect a visceral and emotional experience.â
Nuccio, whose character is known as both the betrayer and confidant of Jesus, emphasized the human complexity of Judas. âThe show does a really good job of showing the nuance and humanity in all characters involved. Itâs not just about historyâitâs about emotion, relationships, and the political climate of the time.â
Kylie Ernest, who portrays Mary Magdalene, also highlighted the deep storytelling embedded in the musical. âMary is often portrayed as a background character, but in our production, sheâs an integral part of the action. Sheâs always present, reacting, and emotionally invested in whatâs happening,â Ernest said. âItâs been so rewarding to bring her character to life in a way that allows the audience to feel her emotions and struggles.â
For those unfamiliar with Jesus Christ Superstar, the musical is entirely driven by its legendary rock score, composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Tim Rice. Unlike traditional musicals, which incorporate spoken dialogue between songs, this production is non-stop music from start to finish. âPerforming in a rock opera is an entirely different challenge,â Nuccio explained. âThereâs no vocal breakâyouâre constantly singing, and that requires incredible stamina. But it also means the energy never dips.â
Ernest echoed that sentiment, noting how music helps convey the intensity of the story. âEven if audiences miss some of the lyrics or political nuances, the music itself carries the emotion. You feel the tension, the joy, the heartbreakâitâs all there in the sound.â
Since its debut in 1970, Jesus Christ Superstar has been both celebrated and controversial. Some traditional audiences initially objected to its portrayal of Jesus and its humanization of Judas. However, the showâs powerful storytelling and musical genius have made it a staple of modern theater. âThe show allows us to see Jesus and Judas as real people with complex emotions,â Nuccio said. âThatâs what makes it so compelling.â
Beyond its gripping performances, Jesus Christ Superstar at Riverside brings a fresh perspective to the classic rock opera, incorporating unique staging and deep character dynamics. âOur version places a strong emphasis on the relationship between Jesus, Judas, and Mary,â Ernest noted. âWe explore their dynamic as a trio, which adds another emotional layer to the production.â
With its stunning visuals, passionate performances, and a score that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its debut, Jesus Christ Superstar at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts promises to be a must-see event this season.
The production runs through April 27. Tickets are available at riversidedt.com. Donât miss the chance to experience this rock opera phenomenon live in Fredericksburg.
PRICES:
Adult Dinner & Show â $82 (plus applicable taxes)
Seniors (65+) Dinner & Show â $77 (plus applicable taxes)
Children (3-17) Dinner & Show â $70 (plus applicable taxes)
Military Discount (limit 4 tickets with ID) â $77 (plus applicable taxes)
Adult Show Only â $65
Seniors (65+) Show Only â $60
Children (3-17) Show Only â $55
PERFORMANCES:
Thurs. â Sat. Evenings
5:30pm-6:45pm: Meal Service & Appetizers
6:45pm: Show Only Arrival
7:30pm: Performance Start
Sunday Matinees
1:00pm-2:15pm: Meal Service & Appetizers
2:15pm: Show Only Arrival
3:00pm: Performance Start

Fredericksburgâs Riverside Center for the Performing Arts has welcomed a new force in its kitchen: Chef Stefan Boutchyard. With a rich culinary background spanning Fredericksburg, Culpeper, and high-profile catering eventsâincluding the inauguration of President Donald TrumpâBoutchyard is breathing new life into the dinner theaterâs menu.
A Culinary Journey to Riverside
Boutchyardâs journey to Riverside was as unexpected as it was serendipitous. âI was a chef in Culpeper working at a bistro, and I wasnât making a whole lot, but I was sustaining myself,â he said. Then, a call from a friend, local restaurateur Daniel Orofino, founder of Fredericksburgâs Orofino Restaurant, set the stage for a major career shift. âDaniel told me, âI donât know if itâll be a job, but I want you to call my friend Patrick,ââ referring to Riversideâs CEO, Patrick AâHearn.
After meeting with Ahern, the opportunity became clear. âThey wanted to move forward, felt a little stagnant where they were at,â Boutchyard explained. âSo they offered me a position, and here I am. I really jumped headfirst into the deep endâon purpose.â
Reinventing the Menu
Boutchyard wasted no time infusing his personal touch into Riversideâs offerings, beginning with the menu for Heartbreak Hotel, an Elvis Presley-inspired musical on stage now. âI know a little about Elvis, so I said, âLetâs look at his early yearsâTupelo, Nashville, and Vegas.â Thatâs how the Viva Las Vegas shrimp cocktail made its way onto the menu.â
Southern flavors took center stage. âI wanted to do a nod to his roots, so we brought in shrimp and grits and fried chicken. But I thought, âLetâs do chicken and wafflesâwith cornbread waffles.â Then we added a smoked maple syrup with Tabasco to give it a little different flavor.â
Boutchyardâs creativity doesnât stop at entrĂ©es. Even a simple veggie pastry has meaning: âI had a dream about it. The marinara sauce I make for it is my little homage to Danilo Orofinoâitâs not his recipe, but itâs a thank-you to him for introducing me to Riverside.â
The Future of Food at Riverside
With Riversideâs transition to a nonprofit, discussions about reimagining the theater space have been ongoing. Some plans suggest shifting to a more traditional theater seating arrangement and moving food service to a separate banquet area.
But Boutchyard is clear on one thing: âFood is not leaving Riverside. Food will always be a part of Riverside in some form.â Whether through a restaurant model or an event-style format, he insists, âThere will always be some kind of culinary experience here.â
Heâs already looking ahead to Jesus Christ Superstar, featuring Mediterranean-inspired dishes starting March 12, 2025. âWeâre doing a saffron yogurt chicken kebab, roasted garlic Israeli couscous, and grilled curried zucchini with sun-dried tomatoes,â he revealed. âAnd weâre partnering with Sweet Reasons in Spotsylvania for a pistachio chocolate cheesecake that is absolutely amazing.â
âSuper Fun Timeâ Sushi Class
Beyond the dinner theater experience, Boutchyard is launching an interactive culinary event: Super Fun Time Sushi Class. âItâs part cooking lesson, part comedy act,â he said. Drawing from his experience teaching sushi classes in Atlanta, he aims to offer a relaxed, entertaining introduction to sushi-making. âItâs a great way to introduce new people to Riverside. Maybe theyâre not ready to commit to a full show, but they can come for a fun night, learn something, and have a great time.â
The hour-long class will show foodies how to make and and eat three types of sushi rolls. The class starts at 6 p.m. Monday, February 17, 2025. Tickets are $40 each.
As Riverside enters its next chapter, Boutchyard is determined to keep the flavors fresh and the experience unforgettable. âI want my food to complement the show,â he said. âIâm here to make Riverside something really special.â
Donât miss out on the exciting âSeussical Jr.â performance at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts.
This limited-run show features the classic Dr. Seuss story of Horton the Elephant and his journey to protect the Whos and an egg left in his care. The show runs every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from February 4 to March 1, 2025, with an additional Saturday show on March 1. Tickets are just $20 per person, and children under three are free.
The Childrenâs Theatre returns with an amazing performance for all ages! You can even bring your own lunch to enjoy before the show on Tuesday and Thursday performances. Group tickets are available for Tuesday and Thursday shows by calling 540-479-1356, while Saturday matinees can be purchased online or by calling 540-370-4300.
Do you have a local event to share? Itâs FREE to submit your event to our site! Just follow this link: https://form.jotform.com/221630757468058. Simply fill out the form, and your event could be featured in our upcoming listings.
Step into the life of the King of Rock ânâ Roll with Riverside Theaterâs electrifying production of âHeartbreak Hotel.â Featuring Elliott Litherland as âOld Elvisâ and Luke Purcell as âTeen Elvis,â this high-energy show will have you singing, dancing, and cheering all night long.
In this episode, we sit down with the showâs stars to hear about their roles, what drew them to this production, and how theyâre bringing Elvis Presley to life on stage. They share everything from personal connections to Elvisâs thrill of performing in this iconic musical!
Donât miss out on this crowd-pleasing musical event, captivating audiences and warming hearts this winter.
Tickets & Info: riversidedt.com
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This winter, the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts is rockinâ with the sounds of Elvis Presley as the high-energy bio-musical Heartbreak Hotel takes the stage.
Created by the visionary behind the Tony Award-winning Million Dollar Quartet, the production delves into the life of the King of Rock and Roll, exploring his rise to stardom and the challenges that shaped his iconic legacy.
Featuring over 40 of Elvisâ greatest hits, including âThatâs All Right,â âHound Dog,â âBurning Love,â and âJailhouse Rock,â the show blends electrifying performances with storytelling that gives audiences a closer look at the man behind the music. Heartbreak Hotel presents Elvis at pivotal moments in his life, guided by his younger self, in a journey that reveals the struggles and triumphs that made him a legend.
Actors Step Into the Kingâs Blue Suede Shoes
In a recent interview, Elliot Litherland, who portrays the older Elvis Presley, and Luke Purcell, playing teen Elvis, opened up about their unique experiences bringing the King of Rock and Roll to life on the Riverside Center stage.
âFor me, playing Elvis is both an honor and a challenge,â said Litherland, who is no stranger to the role, having performed as Elvis in two previous productions. âElvisâ music speaks for itself, but our goal is to show the human side of this icon. The show brings out both the joy and the tragedy of Elvisâ life, and we hope audiences leave with a deeper understanding of who he was.â
Luke Purcell, a 15-year-old high school student from Louisa County, shared how his lifelong admiration for Elvis brought him to the production. âElvis has always been a big part of my life, but it wasnât until I saw the 2022 biopic Elvis that I truly fell in love with his music and story,â said Purcell. âWhen I heard Riverside was putting on Heartbreak Hotel, I knew I had to audition. Itâs been my dream to play Elvis, and doing so alongside such a talented cast is a dream come true.â
Litherland was quick to praise his younger counterpart, revealing how Purcellâs audition impressed the production team so much that they created a special role for him. âLuke is only 15, but his talent is incredible. He knocked everyoneâs socks off during auditions. Itâs amazing to see someone so young bring such depth and energy to this role,â said Litherland. âHonestly, when Luke leaves the stage, audiences can take or leave me. Heâs the real star.â
The pair also discussed the challenges of portraying a figure as iconic as Elvis Presley. âItâs always nerve-wracking to step on stage as Elvis because everyone has their own vision of who he was,â said Purcell. âFor me, itâs important to avoid being a caricature. Elvis was a real person with incredible talent and struggles, and I want to honor that.â
Litherland echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of balance in their performances. âWhat sets Heartbreak Hotel apart is its focus on storytelling. Itâs not just a concert of Elvisâ hitsâitâs a deep dive into his life, the highs and lows, and the humanity behind the legend,â he explained. âThe show also touches on the struggles Elvis faced, from the pressures of fame to his relationships with those around him.â
Both actors credited the Riverside production team for creating a supportive and collaborative environment. âThis cast feels like a family,â said Purcell. âEveryone, from the directors to the musicians, has been amazing to work with. It makes all the difference when youâre telling such a powerful story.â
The actors also reflected on the broader impact of Elvisâ music and legacy. âThereâs a reason his music still resonates today,â said Litherland. âEven for those of us too young to have lived during his heyday, his influence is undeniable. Itâs an honor to carry that torch, even if just for a little while.â
Performances and Ticket Information
Heartbreak Hotel runs at the Riverside Center through March 2, 2025, offering audiences a vibrant blend of live music, dance, and storytelling. The schedule includes matinees and evening performances to suit every schedule.
- Wednesday Matinees:
Meal Service: 11:30 AM â 12:45 PM
Show-Only Arrival: 12:45 PM
Performance Start: 1:30 PM - Thursday â Saturday Evenings:
Meal Service: 5:30 PM â 6:45 PM
Show-Only Arrival: 6:45 PM
Performance Start: 7:30 PM - Sunday Matinees:
Meal Service: 1:00 PM â 2:15 PM
Show-Only Arrival: 2:15 PM
Performance Start: 3:00 PM
Ticket Prices:
- Dinner & Show: Adults $82, Seniors $77, Children $70
- Show Only: Adults $65, Seniors $60, Children $55
- Military Discount: $77 (limit 4 tickets)
- RUSH Tickets: $35 (same-day purchase, limited availability)
In this episode of the Potomac Local News podcast, host Uriah Kiser interviews Ashlee Waldbauer, Kadejah OnĂš, and Sarah Andersen, three lead performers in Riverside Center for the Performing Arts production of âBeautiful: The Carole King Story.â
The trio shares their experiences portraying iconic figures, their challenges, and the timeless music shaping this beloved musical.
Hereâs what listeners can expect:
Host Uriah Kiser introduces the three talented actresses from Beautiful, setting the stage for an engaging conversation about their roles and the production.
1:00 â Ashlee Waldbauer on Playing Carole King
Ashlee, who plays Carole King, discusses how stepping into the shoes of such a well-known figure came with its own set of challenges. She opens up about battling imposter syndrome during rehearsals and how she ultimately found confidence through her connection to the role.
4:00 â Sarah Andersen on Playing Cynthia Weil
Sarah talks about her portrayal of Cynthia Weil, a dynamic woman with a powerful presence. She explains how she developed her character, the chemistry between Cynthia and Barry Mann, and how both onstage and offstage friendships helped her bring authenticity to the role.
6:00 â Kadejah OnĂš on Her Powerful Character
Kadejah shares insights into her character, part of a Black girl group trying to navigate the segregated music industry of the time. She talks about how her characterâs assertiveness and courage were critical in achieving a Billboard hit, especially during the civil rights movement.
8:00 â The Energy of the Production
The cast reflects on the fast-paced, high-energy nature of the show. Ashlee notes the constant costume and set changes, while Sarah highlights the joy of being part of a production where there is always something happening on stageâeven during scene transitions.
10:00 â The Evolution of Music
Uriah and Kadejah discuss the shifting landscape of the music industry in the 1960s, when artists like Carole King began to take creative control. They reflect on how the music of that time had a lasting impact and continues to resonate with audiences today.
12:00 â Why This Show Matters
The actresses express their belief in the emotional depth of the show. Kadejah speaks about the power of the story and its ability to inspire hope, while Ashlee and Sarah emphasize the importance of showcasing female empowerment through music and storytelling.
14:00 â Final Thoughts
The episode wraps up with the cast sharing what they hope audiences take away from Beautiful. Ashlee highlights Carole Kingâs journey to creative self-discovery, while Sarah reflects on the rare chance female composers had in the music industry and the importance of this story.
Tune in to this insightful podcast for a behind-the-scenes look at âBeautiful: The Carole King Story, and hear more about how these actresses bring the legend of Carole King to life on stage.
This October, the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts Childrenâs Theatre is set to delight audiences with its staging of Roald Dahlâs âWilly Wonka.â The musical, scheduled for performances every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday throughout the month, except for a break on Thursday, October 24, promises a captivating adventure for all ages.
Adapted for the stage by Leslie Bricusse and Timothy Allen McDonald, with music and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley, the production is based on Dahlâs timeless story, âCharlie and the Chocolate Factory.â The show features the beloved songs from the 1971 film starring Gene Wilder and introduces new tunes by Bricusse and Newley, transporting audiences into Willy Wonkaâs mysterious and wondrous chocolate factory.
The show will take place at a specific time each day of the week: On Tuesdays and Thursdays, doors will open at 10:30 a.m. to accommodate school groups wishing to eat their lunches before the show begins at 11:30 a.m. Saturdays start later, with doors opening at 12:30 p.m. and the performance kicking off at 1 p.m. Each show is designed to last one hour, fitting perfectly into a family-friendly schedule.
Sensory-Friendly Performance
The theatre will present an exceptional sensory-friendly performance of âRoald Dahlâs Willy Wonkaâ on October 19 at 10 a.m. This unique showing creates a supportive environment for children and adults with sensory processing differences. During the show, the lights will remain on, and a quiet room will be available, allowing attendees to experience the performance comfortably and according to their needs. Additionally, sensory-friendly bags will be provided by Cooking Autism, Inc., enhancing the experience for those who might find the theatre setting challenging.
Pack a lunch
No meal or beverage service will be provided, so attendees can bring lunches to enjoy before the performances. Tickets are available for $20 per person, and children under three can enjoy the show for free. An additional $3 online processing fee applies to each ticket purchased through the theatreâs website.
For group tickets for Tuesday and Thursday shows, contact Group Sales at 540.479.1356. Saturday tickets can be purchased online at www.riversidedt.com or by calling the Box Office at 540-370-4300.


Ashlee Waldbauer stars as Carole King, a role that she describes as both exhilarating and intimidating. Waldbauer shared her struggles embodying King, a beloved figure known for her soulful music and relatable lyrics. "I battled with a bit of imposter syndrome," she admitted, reflecting on the immense responsibility of playing such a well-regarded artist. The production showcases the daunting yet fulfilling journey of artists tasked with living up to their real-life counterparts.
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Riverside Center for the Performing Arts in Fredericksburg is gearing up for an exciting 2025 season. It will showcase a diverse lineup of musicals, classic plays, and compelling dramas. With a mix of nostalgic favorites and thought-provoking productions, Riverside aims to offer something for everyone.
Season Opener: âHeartbreak Hotelâ
The season kicks off in January with Heartbreak Hotel, a musical celebrating Elvis Presleyâs rise. Featuring over 40 of his classic hits, the production promises to transport audiences back to the early days of rock and roll. Director Patrick AâHearn expressed confidence that the show will be a hit, noting that âgroup ticket sales are already off the charts.â Heartbreak Hotel is set to be a fun and high-energy start to the new season, inviting the audience to relive the music and magic of a young Elvis.
A Powerful Story: âJesus Christ Superstarâ
In time for the Lenten season, Riverside will bring the iconic *Jesus Christ Superstar* to the stage. This legendary rock opera tells the story of the final week of Jesusâ life, focusing on the musicâs emotional depth and power. âItâs a story that we all know, and itâs an inspirational one,â said AâHearn. âFrom Elvis to Jesus, weâre moving through musical history and telling stories that people connect with on a deep level.â
A Classic Drama: âTo Kill a Mockingbirdâ
One of the seasonâs highlights is the stage adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird. Riverside will present the original version of Harper Leeâs beloved novel, featuring Fredericksburg native Tug Coker in the role of Atticus Finch. Coker, a Broadway veteran, will bring a local connection to this classic tale of justice and morality. âThis is a story that needs to be told again and again,â AâHearn emphasized, noting the playâs timeless relevance.
Addressing Mental Health: âNext to Normalâ
In a powerful turn, Riverside will produce Next to Normal, the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical about a family dealing with mental illness. The show explores themes of bipolar disorder, grief, and resilience. Riverside is partnering with local mental health organizations to raise awareness through this production. AâHearn described Next to Normal as âa story that will deeply move audiencesâ and added that itâs essential to address these issues on stage in a way that resonates with the community.
Nostalgic Favorite: âThe Sound of Musicâ
Riverside will revive The Sound of Music for the 2025 season, marking the return of a beloved classic. AâHearn will direct the production, ensuring a fresh and captivating take on this family favorite. While many know and love the movie version, AâHearn believes the stage production has a unique appeal.
AâHearn will direct Sound of Music. Although he had initially been hesitant to direct this iconic show, he is now looking forward to the challenge and is excited to bring a fresh perspective to this beloved classic.
Holiday Showstopper: âWhite Christmasâ
The 2025 season will conclude with *White Christmas*, a holiday favorite known for its festive spirit and timeless songs. This musical will offer Riverside audiences a heartwarming year-end filled with familiar tunes and holiday cheer. AâHearn noted that Riverside has done this show before, and it remains a crowd-pleaser that people look forward to during the holiday season.
Nurturing New Talent
Riverside Center continues to serve as a launching pad for young performers. The 2025 season will feature several high school and college students in various productions, including Heartbreak Hotel and Jesus Christ Superstar. Talented young performers like Aniyah Lee and Nyarai Burrell are already making their mark on the Riverside stage.
âTalent is talent, no matter the age,â said AâHearn. âWeâre lucky to have these young performers bringing their energy and skills to our productions, and itâs exciting to watch them grow.â
One of Riversideâs greatest strengths is the sense of community it fosters among its cast and crew. The 2025 season will see the return of several familiar faces, including cast members from past productions like Jersey Boys and Theyâre Playing Our Song. AâHearn noted the importance of this continuity, explaining that it enhances both the onstage performances and the overall experience for audiences.
âWeâve built a family here, and that sense of community makes Riverside special,â said AâHearn. âWe aim to offer something for everyone, and thatâs reflected not just in the shows we choose but in the talent we bring together to tell these stories.â
Tickets for Riversideâs 2025 season are now on sale.