It’s hard to believe that the Olivier Award-winning reimagined production of Jesus Christ Superstar with lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber started life over 50 years ago as a rock album way back in 1971, making its UK debut at the Palace Theatre in London in 1972. And it is still going strong today.
The rock opera bursts onto the stage with vibrant energy as the actors appear from the auditorium. The set is breathtaking, with musicians towering above the action, while raised above floor level is a huge cross, adding depth and dimension to the performance. In fact, the use of crosses, both hand held, and the imaginative use of the aforementioned cross at floor level – depicting levels of power, adding dramatic effect and also used as a prop for the last supper was really ingenious.
The wonderful lighting sets the scene for the musical which is told entirely through song. The story is told from one of the twelve disciples – Judas Iscariot’s – perspective and the events leading up to the last days of Jesus’ life before he was crucified on the cross, including Judas’ kiss of betrayal in the garden of Gethsemane.
Every single number in this musical is worthy of a mention, but the absolute standout numbers for me were ‘Heaven on their Minds’ by Judas Iscariot, sung by Shem Omari James. ‘Gethsemane’, with Ian Mcintosh as Jesus and Shem Omari James as Judas Iscariot was absolutely outstanding.
‘Superstar’ with Judas and the Ensemble is also worthy of a mention, and ‘I don’t know how to love him’ with Hannah Richardson as Mary Magdelene was absolute perfection. Ian Mcintosh’s performance in ‘Crucifixion’ was off the scale, his voice is incredible. The range and depth of voices in ‘This Jesus must die’ was tremendous.
Every single member of the cast gave this performance their all and are all worthy of a mention. Timo Tatzber is a real scene stealer as the flamboyant Herod in his gold cape and platform heels.
The choreography was extraordinary – fast paced and totally synchronised. The scene with the 39 lashes using glitter bombs was inspired and really effective. The make up and costuming of the show is stunning, using tones to indicate the shift in the narrative.
In the final act, the emotive scene with Jesus on the cross was extraordinary and caught the atmosphere completely. That vision will stay with me for a long time. The standing ovation last night was totally deserved.
Jesus Christ Superstar is at Curve Leicester until February 17, 2024. Tickets £10-70
★★★★★
