The Moorpark College Performing Arts production of “The Last Days of Judas Iscariot” is scheduled to premier Oct. 10 and will run for a total of 10 shows, two of which are student-only matinees. Originally penned by playwright Stephen Adly Gurigis, “The Last Days of Judas Iscariot” imagines a trial over the ultimate fate of biblical traitor Judas Iscariot, held in purgatory and featuring witnesses ranging from Jesus Christ to Satan.
Director and producer Suzanne Fagan is nervous, yet excited for the play to open. Fagan is nervous because some might not take to the words and ideas in this play surrounding Jesus Christ and religion, but she’s excited by the amazing work she sees students putting into the play.
In regards to selecting the cast of the play, Fagan had nothing but praise for those involved, stating “Everyone gave really great auditions; it was not easy to make this decision.” Fagan elaborated further, stating that while everyone gave fantastic auditions, she was particularly drawn to the abilities of Jessy Sulka, Robert Santiago and Ian Bowers to adjust to and work with directorial feedback.
Moorpark College sophomore Jessy Sulka will feature in the lead role of Judas Iscariot. Sulka was unfamiliar with the play at first, but was drawn to the role after learning more about the captivating premise. As opening night nears, Sulka isn’t nervous, but excited for the audience to see the depth of the play.
Meanwhile, Moorpark College sophmore Ian Bowers will be starring in the role of Satan. When asked what drew Bowers to the role, he emphasized the multitude of layers to the character and the challenge it offers him as an actor to expand his range. Bowers is excited for audiences to see the show and believes they will love it, stating “The show is darkly humorous but also has a lot of heart, which I believe the audience will enjoy.”
Tickets can be purchased for listed showings online or at the box office. Students looking to catch an early show can also choose to attend the two student-only matinees, which will take place Oct. 15 and 16 at 10 a.m. For more information, call the Moorpark College Performing Arts Center box office at (805) 378-1485 or visit the Moorpark College website.
