Get ready for a rare cinematic and musical event: on Tuesday, September 30. Wonderland Cinema in Niles will host a one-night only screening of Jesus Christ Superstar—The Farewell Tour at 7:00 p.m., featuring a very special guest appearance by Ted Neeley, the actor and musician who originated the role of Jesus in the legendary 1973 film.
A Meet & Greet with Ted Neeley will be held at 6:00 p.m., and there will also be an opportunity to meet him again immediately after the showing. Attendees will be able to snap photos, exchange greetings, and celebrate one of the most iconic musical performances in film history. Tickets are only $5, available online, via the Wonderland app, or in person. Exclusive promotional items will also be available at the theater. Wonderland Cinema is located at 402 North Front Street, Niles 49120.
Why This Film Still Matters
First released in 1973, Jesus Christ Superstar was the film adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s groundbreaking rock opera. The original musical (debuting as a concept album in 1970 and then on stage in 1971) brought something very new to audiences: a story told almost entirely in song, portraying the last week of Jesus’ life not just as a biblical event, but through a rock aesthetic, emotional complexity, and a focus on characters like Judas Iscariot and Mary Magdalene in ways that many had not seen before. April Online+3Encyclopedia Britannica+3andrewlloydwebber.com+3
Over the last 50+ years, the film has endured — not just among religious or musical theater fans, but as a piece of cultural history. It challenged norms, sparked controversy (some religious groups objected to its portrayal of Jesus with moments of doubt; others to focusing on Judas’ perspective; others to how certain characters are portrayed). Wikipedia+2Encyclopedia Britannica+2
But over time, its reputation has solidified: its music remains powerful; its theatrical style remains influential; its themes of fame, devotion, betrayal, sacrifice still resonate. It offers a bridge between generations, giving younger audience members a chance to see a work that influenced how musicals, film, and religious art intersect.
Ted Neeley: Then, Now, and Why the Farewell Tour
Ted Neeley (born in 1943) became best known for his performance as Jesus in the 1973 film. He was nominated for Golden Globe Awards for that role. Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2 Before the film, he was involved in the original Broadway cast of Jesus Christ Superstar as an understudy and performer, and then took on the part of Jesus in Los Angeles stage productions. Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2
In more recent years, Neeley has been actively revisiting that legacy. He is on the “Jesus Christ Superstar Farewell Tour”, which brings together fans, live music, and the joy of communal performance. In interviews, Neeley has said that the tour feels like a reunion with family, friends, old and new fans alike. WGCU PBS & NPR for Southwest Florida
Neely continues to sing, perform, and serve as a bridge between the rock opera’s early audience and newer generations who may be learning about it for the first time. For many, the musical style, the emotional weight, and the theatrical spectacle still make for a memorable live-performance experience.
Event Details
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What: Jesus Christ Superstar—The Farewell Tour screening + Meet & Greet with Ted Neeley
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When: Tuesday, September 30, 2025
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Meet & Greet begins at 6:00 p.m.
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Film begins at 7:00 p.m.
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Where: Wonderland Cinema, 402 North Front Street, Niles 49120
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Tickets: $5.00 — available online, via the app, or in person
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Extras: Exclusive promotional items for purchase
