Hall for Cornwall, Truro – until 4 May 2024
Reviewed by Kerry Gilbert
5*****
A Captivating, Intense and Thrilling Musical
Jesus Christ Superstar originated as a concept album between Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. It has received many stage adaptions including the latest version which has been revamped and transformed into something that is like nothing you have seen in an Andrew Lloyd Webber show before.
This version is dark in more ways than one: the telling of Christ’s last few days of his life as he ventures through love, betrayal, and sacrifice. It’s a non stop sung through opera with many guitar riffs and some amazing lighting from designer Lee Curran. You are introduced to characters that have a vital part in those last few days and see how they interact and treat Jesus in his last few moments before crucifixion.
The stage setting is very dark and moody, and reflected the rock nature of the show with scaffolding, a giant crucifix, and microphones swinging around stage. Placed throughout the set, on different levels are the stunning musicians. There is a blur between musical and staged concert and as someone who loves nothing more than musical theatre and rock concerts, this was right up my street.
Jesus (Ian McIntosh) was phenomenal and had everyone at the edge of their seats. His vocal range is second to none and his rendition of Gethsemane was so raw and powerful and nothing short of perfection. He can belt, his falsetto is pitch perfect and he crucially makes you believe in the torment he feels. Strong support is given by Mary (Hannah Richardson). There is a purity to her voice which shines especially when she performed ‘I Don’t know how to Love Him’. Judas (Shem Omari James), proves more problematic. I struggled to tell what he is singing despite concentrating hard to focus on the word. As this is a production with no spoken dialogue, the songs drive the narrative. It proves difficult to truly understand the motivation behind the character and his subsequent betrayal if you cannot decipher the lyrics. Watch out for the scene stealing turn from Herod (Timo Tatzber). You won’t miss him in his shimmering fold cape which lifted the mood at the right time. Caiaphas (Jad Habchi) and Annas (Matt Bateman) gave incredible performances, and their vocal range was insane and truly impressed me. Pilate (Ryan O’Donnell) was truly hateful and gave a strong and mesmerising performance. The accomplished ensemble performed with precision, gusto, and seemingly endless stamina. The costume design was moody and semi-contemporary, which worked well with the industrial, girder inspired set design.
Jesus Christ Superstar is a curious, yet successful, blend of the sacred and the profane. There is much to admire from this driven cast and dramatic story.