- Running Time
- 1hr 50mins
- Age
- 13+
Overall Score
Rating Overview
Rating Summary
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR which is currenty touring the UK. Reimagined by Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, it won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival, garnering unprecedented reviews and accolades. Timothy Sheader (Crazy for You, Into the Woods) directs this mesmerizing new production of the iconic global phenomenon,
Featuring lyrics and music by Emmy, GRAMMY, Oscar and Tony winners Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, and with choreography by Drew McOnie (King Kong, Strictly Ballroom), JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the score includes ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him’, ‘Gethsemane’ and ‘Superstar’.
Copyright: Images (UK Tour 2023/24 Production Photography)
We were lucky enought to attend the opening night at Theatre Royal Plymouth on 6th November 2023!
A Divine Experience
“Jesus Christ Superstar: The Musical” electrified the Theatre Royal Plymouth at its opening on Monday 6th November 2023, delivering a performance that was nothing short of divine. This modern take on a classic, set against the backdrop of rock ‘n’ roll and a timeless story, had the audience in awe, especially in Act 2!
The cast and crew of this production brought the story of Jesus Christ’s final days to life with an energy and passion that was truly remarkable. The music, composed by the incredibly talented Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Tim Rice, were as powerful as ever, and the live band that you can see on stage throughout the show added a thrilling dimension to the performance. The talented ensemble cast, led by the remarkable performances of Jesus (Ian Mcintosh), and Mary Magdalene (Hannah Richardson), truly made the characters come alive on stage.
Act 1 left us a little deflated, there were no real show stopping moments, no really memorable moments and made us wonder how they could save the day in Act 2, Judas played by Shem Omari James for us was not pitch perfect, and occasionally screeched onto the stage and at times you really could not hear what he was singing. Act 2 made the show and boy did they take us for an exceptional ride! Read on to find out our standout moments and more. A show that packs glitter (by the caseload literally)!
Direction and Staging
The staging and direction were nothing short of brilliant. The innovative set design which features a huge crucifix, lighting, and choreography created a dynamic and visually spectacular and stunning experience. The use of both modern and historical elements in the set and costume design added a unique twist to the classic tale, bringing JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR back into the modern day for a revival like no other. The choreography was sublime and every cast member was perfectly in unison which made the whole performance stand out.
Standout Moments
THE standout moment of the show was the powerful rendition of “Gethsemane,” where (Ian Mcintosh) Jesus’s inner turmoil was portrayed with such raw emotion, the hairs on the backs of our necks were up! Ian delivered this powerful ballad alone on the stage and catured your attention from the second he started signing, his velvet tones were perfect and yes, he hit EVERY note perfectly! Herod (Timo Tatzber) was played masterfully and brought a true delight to Act 2 in his performance of “King Herod’s Song” shined through, with a glittering costume and was note perfect! Additionally, the intimate and heartfelt moments between Jesus and Mary (Hannah Richardson), particularly during “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” were touching and beautifully executed Hannah’s voice was like a diamond and note perfect, though we felt that Mary should have been holding Jesus or at least be near him in this rendition to add to the moment.
Audience Engagement
The audience at the Theatre Royal Plymouth was fully engaged throughout the performance. From the infectious energy of the rock anthems to the emotional ballads, there was a palpable connection between the cast and the audience. Applause and cheers filled the theatre as the final notes of the show faded away, an almost instant standing ovation from almost every single person in the audience proved that this classic still hits big!
Conclusion
“Jesus Christ Superstar: The Musical” at the Theatre Royal Plymouth was a spectacular performance that left the audience both entertained and moved. It’s a modern classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. The combination of powerful music, some exceptional performances, and innovative staging made this a must-see production. Don’t miss the chance to witness the magic of “Jesus Christ Superstar” if it comes to a theatre near you soon. tour dates and ticket information can be found here.
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR plays at Theatre Royal Plymouth until Saturday 11 November 2023, tickets for TRP can be booked here, LIMITED AVAILABILITY FOR ALL REMAINING PLYMOUTH PERFORMANCES! The tour then heads onto Wolverhampton, Bradford, Ipswich and many more!
This timeless tale, reimagined in magnificent, glittering glory, is a classic retold with an electrifying twist.
