JESUS LIVE! to Make Hollywood Fringe Festival Debut at Stephanie Feury Studio Theatre
JD Mata, Evan McNamar, Alexandra Fragoso, and Jack Little lead the cast of the new work.
Jesus Live! will debut at Hollywood Fringe Festival this June at Stephanie Feury Studio Theatre, offering a contemporary re-examination of one of history's most influential figures.
Blending music, storytelling and social commentary, Jesus Live! presents “the man, not the myth,” as Yeshua returns to set the record straight. Joined by God, Mary Magdalene, Satan and others, the production explores the origins of organized religion and the narratives that have shaped belief systems for centuries.
Playwright and executive producer Billy Threadgold developed the piece over nearly five years, beginning as a weekend project while working full time. “I wasn't sure I'd ever finish it,” Threadgold said. “I was just interested in the subject and enjoyed the process, especially collaborating with David Carbonara and his brother John as they brought the music to life.”
Rather than positioning the work as a traditional comedy, Threadgold describes Jesus Live! as a thought-provoking theatrical experience. “I see it as a realistic look at the origins and reasoning behind organized religion,” he said. “If we can entertain audiences while also giving them something to think about, that's a win.”
The production marks Threadgold's first full-length musical and comes to Fringe following the completion of the script. “Fringe presented the perfect opportunity at the right time,” he said. “It allowed me to connect with a team who knew how to bring the project to life.”
Directed by John C. Coppola, the production features JD Mata, Alexandra Fragoso, Evan McNamara and Jack C. Little. Music Composer, David Carbonara and John Carbonara. Music Director: Ron Barnette. Costumer: Jenna Morris. Stage Manager: Michelle Vasquez. Playwright and Executive Producer: Billy Threadgold. Consulting Producer: Matthew V. Quinn.
Through its reimagining of biblical figures, including a modern portrayal of Mary Magdalene, the production aims to offer a fresh perspective on familiar narratives. At its core, Jesus Live! explores what Threadgold calls “the beautiful mystery surrounding life” and humanity's attempts to explain it. “If there's one takeaway,” he said, it's that this life is fleeting and precious. So feel free to stop listening to people profiting from telling you what you may or may not be getting someday and appreciate the incredible gift you've already been given today.”
About the Playwright
Billy Threadgold makes his musical theater debut with Jesus Live!. Developed over several years in collaboration with composer David Carbonara, the project evolved from a personal creative exploration into a full-scale production. Threadgold previously wrote and staged a short play in Santa Monica and is grateful to his collaborators for helping bring this work to life.
Where: Stephanie Feury Studio Theatre, 5636 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles
When: June 14 at 5:30 p.m. | June 19 at 8 p.m. | June 25 at 8 p.m.
Ticket Price: $15
Ticket Link: Hollywood Fringe Festival - jesus live!
75 minutes | Ages 16+
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