“It’s all gone sour” doesn’t necessarily mean a bad thing with a new collaboration between Mariposa Arts Theatre (MAT) and Couchiching Craft Brewing Co. (CCBC).
Ahead of Mariposa Arts Theatre’s upcoming production of Jesus Christ Superstar this November, Couchiching Craft Brewing Co. has been brewing up something special with, not one, but two specialty labels in celebration of the show.
And while not as simple as turning water into wine, the cast and crew were given the chance to experience the craft brewing process first-hand alongside brewers Rama Sriharsha and Evan Running. “When we do collaborations, I don’t want to take charge,” says Sriharsha, “I would rather people come in and be excited about the beer they want to make.”
The MAT team worked alongside the CCBC team to develop a small batch flavour that winked at moments in the show. It has been a great opportunity for some theatre kids to learn more about how craft beer is made and for the brewery team to learn more about the production.
A surprising amount of parallels can be drawn from creating theatre and creating beer. There are many more technical aspects than one might think, but also a great amount of creativity and collaboration to make something fresh and exciting. Actor Josh Halbot, who plays Judas in the production, had the honours of being up close and involved in the brewing process. “Brew day was like a grown up field trip as Rama and Evan walked us through all the complex and fascinating steps that go into beer-making. They allowed us to participate in every step of the process, from grinding to souring to drinking!”
As for the beers themselves, there will be two Superstar labels to keep your eyes on:
- The first brew is a “Jaded Mandarin” Sour Pale Ale referencing lyrical moments from The Last Supper when heated words are shared between Jesus and Judas. Using a blood orange flavour, as a nod to Christian allegory, to add a vibrant flavour and colour to the brew. Pick up the Jaded Mandarin for a limited time at Couchiching Craft Brewing Co and Brewery Bay Food Co.
- The second label, the “Mary Märzdalene” in honour of the character of Mary Magdalene, is a relabel of CCBC’s Mariposa Märzen+. This one will be available exclusively at the Orillia Opera House during the run of the production from November 6-16th.
The collaboration has been a great experience for both organizations. “Collaboration only helps everyone involved,” says Sriharsha, “as soon as you give as much as you can, you get that back.” Halbot echoes that sentiment, “It’s been truly heartwarming to see how welcoming and friendly all the staff at Couch Brewing have been to coordinate on this project. This is the kind of partnership that truly puts the community into community theatre.”
Tickets for Mariposa Arts Theatre’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar can be purchased online at mariposaartstheatre.com/superstar. Pick up Jaded Mandarin Sour Pale Ale while supplies last at Couchiching Craft Brewing Co. and show attendees can purchase the Mary Märzdalene at the Orillia Opera House during the show.
