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FEATURE:
Christian Rock Opera "!Hero"
January 2, 2004 Episode no. 718
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KIM LAWTON, guest anchor: Christians around the world have been marking the birth of Jesus. Now, a popular new contemporary rock opera depicts the Gospel story of his life, death and resurrection -- and does so with gritty, urban music. The rock opera is called " !Hero." After a highly successful fall tour, the stage production of " !Hero" will be traveling the country again this spring.
It's the traditional gospel story -- with a definite 21st century twist: Jesus as an African-American named Hero. He was born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, grew up in a Jewish community in Brooklyn, and preaches his message on the streets of Manhattan. The government that condemns him is a Big Brother-type police state called the International Confederation of Nations, or ICON.
EDDIE DEGARMO (Co-writer, Christian Rock Opera " !Hero"): I tried to use an imaginary part of your mind where, "Well, what would it be like if it had happened today?" You know, what would it be like if Pilate was the governor of New York? What if Christ never came 2000 years ago, and he came today?
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LAWTON: Veteran Christian music star Eddie DeGarmo co-wrote the rock opera and financed the project himself. The idea is to use high quality production values and contemporary music styles to bring the Gospel story to an MTV-generation audience.
It's a gritty, urban tale with rock 'n' roll, hip-hop and rap. Several stars of contemporary Christian rock sing the lead roles, including Michael Tait of the group "dc talk" as Hero. The creators hope it appeals to Christians and non-Christians alike.
Mr. DEGARMO: What we've tried to create is a world-class production, and one that can stand up to any scrutiny, and we've tried not to spare any expense to do that. But for me, I guess it was my mission that's turned into my obsession.
LAWTON: It's also a money-making venture. Along with a successful stage show, there's a " !Hero" comic book series, a trilogy of novels, a CD, and audio books.
Mr. DEGARMO:As far as being concerned about the commercialism of it, I guess the line that works best with that is: "The Gospel is free but CDs cost $17.98."
LAWTON: But all joking aside, DeGarmo says he hopes his Christian rock opera will lead more people to read the Gospel for themselves.
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