By Hannah Thomas
Believe the buzz
From the opening guitar riff, full of drama and foreboding, to the powerful finale, this award-winning production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s masterpiece, Jesus Christ Superstar, has got it all – incredible singers and musicians, dynamic choreography, and atmospheric staging.
Set during the final few weeks of Jesus’ life, the legendary rock opera moves slickly from one mega hit to another – Heaven on their Minds, What’s the Buzz, Everything’s Alright, Hosanna and Superstar. These are harmonically-rich, memorable tunes, technically difficult to perform, but the cast and musicians nail it.
Directed by Timothy Sheader, the production stars Shem Omari James as a convincing, tormented Judas, a powerful Ian McIntosh as Jesus, and Hannah Richardson, with her Judy Garland-esque tones, as Mary Magdalene. All three are superb, and the other soloists and ensemble members are just as strong.
Much of the plot centres on Judas, who is dissatisfied with the direction in which Jesus is steering his disciples. There is political intrigue, multiple agendas are at work, and we get to know Jesus the man – his hopes and fears.
There are some fantastic set pieces. Caiaphas, Annas and the other priests are like a Biblical Take That, performing on a platform shaped like an inverted cross. Matt Bateman camps it up as Annas, while Jad Jabchi’s Caiaphas – could he sing any lower? His deep, bass voice causes gasps among the audience.
Herod’s Song is another highlight, with Timo Tatzber leaping across the stage, not forgetting the trashing of the temple, the lepers as zombies, and Palm Sunday, full of hope and joy.
The drama and power goes up a notch in the second half – we all know what’s coming. Sinister masked Roman guards, reminiscent of Dr Who’s Weeping Angels, march on and off stage, there’s an amazing saxophone solo, and clever use of glitter and silver paint.
In a striking move, the disciples at the Last Supper are a frozen tableau, echoing Da Vinci’s painting. Judas betrays his friend, and the show reaches its climax in the heart-rending crucifixion.
The pared back set is at once futuristic and ancient, comprising rusting scaffolding and stacks of music cases. The action feels intimate, taking place mostly stage right, while the magnificent live band is above and behind, in the shadows.
Lighting design is by Lee Curran, and is highly effective, making use of search lights, spots and menacing red flashes to create mood and drama. Swirling smoke also adds to the spectacle, while the cast, dressed in pale, loose-fitting harem pants and raggedy tops, are like ghosts.
The choreography, by Drew McOnie, one of Britain’s most sought-after choreographers, is a triumph. The strong ensemble is on stage pretty much the whole time, and like a Greek Chorus, supports the storytelling via dance, movement and action, as well as song.
This production by the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre is at Cardiff’s Wales Millennium Centre for one week only, until Feb 3 – if you get the chance, do go and see it.
Book here
Find out more about the production and UK tour at jesuschristsuperstar.com
photos by Paul Coltas