When Joseph Hale picked up the phone, he heard: “No offense, Joe. I don’t think you’re an evil guy, but I’d like you to play this role.”
The role in question? Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus Christ’s 12 disciples, who betrayed his friend for 30 pieces of silver, leading to Jesus’ arrest and ultimate crucifixion.
The man on the other end of the phone? Conductor and composer Rob Gardner, best-known for his oratorio “Lamb of God,” a musical portrayal of the last week in the life of Jesus, beginning with the raising of Lazarus, to Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion and his resurrection. The story is told through those who surrounded Jesus, including Peter, John, Thomas, Mary Magdalene and his mother, Mary.