Tallaght’s all‑inclusive ‘Superstar’ returns as Vine Group revives iconic 1992 cast for charity
“At the end of 2025, the Vine Group was gifted the rights to do two performances of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’,” explains Joe Geoghegan, chairperson and team member of the Tallaght-based Vine Group.
They were also gifted the show-ready tracks by The ROCS company, which are the only tracks allowed to be used by the Really Useful Group.
This allowed the Vine Group the freedom to turn ‘Superstar’ into a project that would make it stand out from all previous productions.
The Vine Group assembled a truly all-inclusive cast of performers made up of people from different nationalities, ages, abilities, and religious or non-religious backgrounds.
They then made Tallaght “the star of the production” by filming the scenes of ‘Superstar’ in landmark places around Tallaght, like the Priory market, Tallaght University Hospital, Tallaght Library and many more.
These scenes were shown on screens either side of the stage during the performance and brought the audience on a truly special journey.
The two performances were to raise money for the ‘Help Us Help Others’ campaign, which is where they raise as much money as possible and give it to families in need, coming up to Christmas with the help of local Saint Vincent de Paul committees.
The group also gives money to local schools to be used for children who cannot afford trips, outings, sports equipment, etc., and they run two free cafes, among other programmes.
Two more of the original 1992 ‘Superstar’ cast have come on board; Kevin Shortall, who played Jesus in the first production of ‘Superstar’ to ever be staged in Tallaght, will once again take on the role.
Next is Brian Patrick Gallagher, who was a high priest in the 92 production, who will be taking on the role of Simon Zealot.
Finally, the special guest performer taking on the role of King Herod is none other than the one and only Mr Al Porter, and “we know he will make the role his own.”
The first performance will be on Sunday, September 20 in Saint Mark’s Church Springfield at 8pm, with doors open at 7.30pm.
The second performance is on Sunday, October 4, in Saint Mary’s Priory Tallaght Village, and again doors open at 7.30pm; the performance starts at 8pm.
Tickets are 10 euros for adults and 5 euros for children, students and OAPs; there can also be discounts for group and family bookings.
Tickets will be available in Saint Mark’s Parish office or can be reserved by calling John on 0872620993; people can also pay at the door on the nights of the performances.
This will be the last chance to see the Vine Groups’ “exciting” performance of ‘Superstar’ and be a part of the “truly original concept”.
All money raised goes to the ‘Help Us Help Others’ campaign, as the Vine Group are non-profit.
“We hope to see as many people as possible on both nights, so spread the word and come along,” concludes Joe.
For more information, check their Facebook page and Instagram page or email vinemass@gmail.com.
