Review: ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ Roars

Courtesy of the Ordway

A new mounting of the iconic musical phenomenon “Jesus Christ Superstar” returns to the stage at the Ordway through Dec. 28. This production, originally staged by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre and helmed by the acclaimed director Timothy Sheader, won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival.

The Ordway production leans heavily on creating a concert experience of the 1971 Billboard Album of the Year. It is one part evening at the theater and one part rock concert. The on-stage musicians are as integral to telling the story of the last days of Jesus Christ as the actors. From the opening guitar riff that pierces the dark theater, you know this is not your typical night of musical theater.

Technically, “Superstar” is a marvel of sound and light. Making full use of the upgraded Ordway sound system, the production is a technical and sonic triumph, propelled by a visceral, high-octane rock ensemble. Breaking with tradition, the staging makes intentional, liberal use of hand-held microphones alongside standard body packs. This is a smart move that grants the vocals a discernible clarity, allowing the lyrics to cut through the intense, chaotic wall of wailing guitars and percussion.

Choreographer Drew McOnie keeps the ensemble in perpetual, relentless motion, flowing around a stage that’s dominated by a large cross, which serves as both a sculptural backdrop and a dramatic runway. This small ensemble, often split across two levels, powerfully suggests the crowds that surrounded Jesus throughout his ministry, sometimes in adoration, and at other times in blinding anger.

Jack Hopewell stars as Jesus, delivering a performance that gracefully balances the charismatic appeal of the Prophet with the tortured events we know are in his future. His high tenor vocals soar on the ballad “Gethsemane.” He is joined by Elvie Ellis as Judas, offering a multilayered portrayal of the conflicted betrayer. A striking design choice happens when Judas reaches into the chest for his payment: His hands turn to silver and remain that way for the rest of the show, serving as a chilling, constant mark of his irreversible choice.

Courtesy of the Ordway

Faith Jones as Mary provides a necessary calming force against the production’s machismo. Her Mary is kind and offers calming vibes to those around her. Jones’ rendition of the well-known “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” is part confession and part dedication to her relationship with Jesus. Her choices are subtle but bold in their quiet resonance.

Although to some this musical may seem an odd choice for the Christmas season, “Jesus Christ Superstar” truly reminds us that Jesus is the reason for the season in a way unlike any other. The story is the original telling of both cancel culture and redemption. In today’s turmoil, the show confronts us with this raw version of the Passion of Christ and how we treat those who walk among us. An evening at the Ordway’s “Jesus Christ Superstar” is a powerful night of storytelling and unforgettable musical theater.

Courtesy of the Ordway