AMATEUR dramatics group Players 2 are celebrating their 35th anniversary by performing the classic rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar at the Compass Theatre, Ickenham.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s and Tim Rice's timeless musical has been available to amateurs for years, but in London it was heavily restricted.

Finally, it has been released for groups everywhere and Players 2 jumped at the chance to stage their dream show.

Players 2 was formed in 1979 to produce the best musicals and, 90 shows later, they have achieved their goal by producing hits such as Grease, Chicago and another of Lloyd Webber's great shows, Whistle Down The Wind.

Jesus Christ Superstar presents the high drama of the last seven days of the Messiah's life, and the authors created a new musical theatre genre with their combination of rock songs, wit and genuine emotion.

Director Tim Redman said: "Having fallen in love with the show in the 1970s, the wait for the performing rights has been almost unbearable.

“The remarkable thing about the show is its versatility. It is an intimate piece, despite its pop score, and that makes it just as suited to the Compass as the O2, where the recent Arena Tour version enjoyed a sell-out run.

“Most importantly, we have assembled an amazing cast and it has been a pleasure hearing their soaring voices week in and out during rehearsals.”

Jesus Christ Superstar runs at the Compass Theatre, Ickenham, November 19-22 with a matinee on the final day.

Tickets are available from the Compass box office, 01895 673200, and at www.compasstheatre.co.uk Tickets are £14 and £12 (concessions).