Kushnier (Next to Normal, Footloose) took over the role of Pilate when Superstar arrived in La Jolla Nov. 18. Tom Hewitt (Dracula, Rocky Horror Show, Zhivago), who has been announced to play the role on Broadway in March, appeared as Pilate for a handful of La Jolla performances.

Hewitt is currently featured as Captain Hook in the New York return of Peter Pan, starring Cathy Rigby, through Dec. 30 at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. 

Kushnier resumed performances as Pilate the week of Dec. 12. He will also be part of the Broadway transfer of Superstar, appearing as James the Lesser/Priest.

Directed by Tony Award winner Des McAnuff (The Who's Tommy, Jersey Boys), Superstar will arrive on Broadway March 1, 2012, at the Neil Simon Theatre. It officially opens March 22, 2012.

The Broadway cast will also feature Paul Nolan as Jesus Christ, Josh Young as Judas Iscariot, Chilina Kennedy as Mary Magdalene, Bruce Dow as King Herod, Marcus Nance as Caiaphas and Aaron Walpole as Annas. Completing the cast are Matt Alfano as Thaddeus, Mary Antonini as Elizabeth, Karen Burthwright as Ruth, Jacqueline Burtney as Mary (Martha’s Sister), Mark Cassius as Matthew, Ryan Gifford as Bartholomew, Kaylee Harwood as Sarah, Mike Nadajewski as Peter, Melissa O’Neil as Martha/Maid by the Fire, Laurin Padolina as Rachel, Katrina Reynolds as Esther, Jaz Sealey as Thomas, Jason Sermonia as John, Julius Sermonia as James, Lee Siegel as Simon Zealotes, Jonathan Winsby as Phillip, Sandy Winsby as Andrew, and Krista Leis and Matthew Rossoff as swings.

Dodger Properties and the Really Useful Group produce the Broadway production.

Jesus Christ Superstar has music by Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Rice. The sung-through rock work premiered on Broadway in 1971.

La Jolla tickets are available here. For Broadway tickets visit Ticketmaster, or phone (877) 250-2929.