RIDGEFIELD — A Contemporary Theatre of Connecticut has taken on the classic Jesus Christ Superstar, with iconic music and lyrics by Andrew Lloyd Weber and Tim Rice respectively. It has given it a decidedly new edge. The music and story reverberate in an environment where hope is scarce and oppression reigns. Yet through the darkness the music and performances captivate and the message holds fast.

Under the remarkably precise and effective direction of Daniel C. Levine, who should hold a master class in the art of directing, the stunning cast shines. Their collective vocal power and range is stellar.

The play portrays the final days in the life of Jesus Christ. Corruption, betrayal and fear are rampant. Jesus (played by Brett Stoelker) is alone while surrounded by his apostles. They profess devotion although their commitment is weak.

Mary Magdalene (Caitlin Kinnunen) is the only trusted friend of Jesus. She comforts and soothes him, yet nothing can prevent the excruciating betrayal by Judas (Avionce Hoyles).

Agonizingly conflicted, Judas sells his soul to the brutish government and turns in the prophet. It is painful. The outcome is death by crucifixion.

The cast as a whole is brilliant. They have clearly put in an enormous effort.

As Jesus, Stoelker gives a powerful performance as his character is at once a leader, while terrified of what is to come. The actor has a gorgeous vocal capacity. His prolonged falsetto notes are breathtaking.

Hoyles, who is a force on stage, movingly renders the agony experienced by the choice of Judas. It feels as like a splinter to the heart.

As the woman in Jesus’s life, Kinnunen is perfection. In her drab clothing, she creates an angelic character whose only desire is to comfort the man she loves.

Caiaphas, the diabolical High Priest who engineers the capture of Jesus Christ, is played by Isaac Ryckeghem. His gorgeous baritone captivates.

Pilate, played by Michael McGuirk, is a standout, effectively revealing the challenges faced by the man who would be blamed for Jesus’s death.

Andrew Stevens Purdy plays Peter with a palpable measure of soul. It is beautiful.

The stylistic blocking and costumes create an aura of bleakness countered by the enthusiastic choreography of Sara Brians. The dancers are captivating, spreading a large measure of youthful optimism in the face of tyranny. The juxtaposition works wonderfully.

Musical Director Bryan Perry uses his sizable and talented band expertly — again, countered by the choreography — bringing this well-loved musical to life, from the opening notes through to its conclusion.

From start to finish, this top-notch production was superb.

The production continues to April 17, with evening performances Thursday through Saturday and weekend matinees.

Note there is a special Sunday evening performance planned on April 10 at 7 pm and a Sensory Friendly Performance scheduled for Saturday, April 16, at 2 pm. The latter show is reserved for patrons who require adjusted production elements to enjoy the performance; reservations must be made directly through the box office phone line or email (475-215-5497 or boxoffice@actofct.org); they are not available through the website for that show.

Visit actofct.org for details and reservations for all other performances.