Jesus Christ Superstar was a contemporary spin on an age old biblical story with disciples in hoodies and an opera-rock score.
A guitar solo opened the show, now playing at Oxford’s New Theatre, and the music and songs did not stop – in fact, it was the concept album that originally got the show off the ground and onto Broadway in the 1970s.
Jesus Christ Superstar is the story of the Passion of Christ, brought to life through rock opera songs with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice. The first half sets the scene; Judas is dissatisfied with how Jesus is leading his disciples, and unhappy with his relationship with Mary Magdalene. But come the second half, the tension rose and action happened and the final days of Jesus’ life were played out.
The dancers / Jesus’ followers were front and centre of this modern production; the set post-apocalyptic, dark and atmospheric. There was so much going on, at times we didn’t know where to look.
The songs just kept coming, one after another, Pilate’s Dream, Everything’s Alright, The Last Supper, The Arrest and so much more. Mary, played by Hannah Richardson, had a wonderful voice, and the performances by Ian McIntosh (Jesus) and Shem Omari James (Judas) almost felt like being at a rock concert!
We particularly liked the re-enactment of the last supper image; and strangely the glitter bombing – 39 lashes which were all counted out. We must mention the crucifixion cross which was actually made from a speaker stand (yes it was) – the speaker was detached though! Finally do look out for Herod’s camp performance – it was hilarious!
Jesus Christ Superstar was an interesting take on a biblical story and the audience loved it – as the final scene finished the cast received an eruption of applause and standing ovation. The show is at Oxford’s New Theatre until Saturday 11th May. For more information and tickets view https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/jesus-christ-superstar/new-theatre-oxford/
What is the plot of Jesus Christ Superstar?
Jesus Christ Superstar is a rock opera that follows the last week of Jesus Christ’s life, focusing on the interpersonal relationships and struggles among Jesus, his disciples, and other historical figures such as Judas Iscariot and Mary Magdalene. The story explores the political and religious tensions of the time, leading up to Jesus’ betrayal by Judas, his trial, crucifixion, and resurrection. The musical highlights themes of betrayal, faith, redemption, and the power of belief.
The rock opera created by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice in 1970 as a concept album in 1970 and later became a stage production in 1971. The musical tells the story of the last week of Jesus’ life, focusing on the events leading up to his crucifixion.
The musical features a diverse range of musical styles, including rock, pop, and ballads. Some popular songs from the musical include “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” “Superstar,” and “Everything’s Alright.”
