The Rice/Lloyd Webber production of “Jesus Christ Superstar” has returned to the stage at the Wales Millennium Centre, and it remains a testament to the Biblical strength of the story, even after 50 year!
From the moment you step into the auditorium, you are transported into a world that is both familiar and new. The production of “Jesus Christ Superstar” at the Wales Millennium Centre is a captivating introduction to this iconic musical. The contemporary reinvention of the classic show seamlessly blends modern dance elements with a post-apocalyptic aesthetic, while still honouring the essence of the original.
The rock score from the 1970s, initially released as a concert album, portrays the events of the last weeks of Jesus’s life, reimagining him as a musical icon with a massive fan following. While the story of Jesus’ final days is familiar, the initial moments of the production may require some adjustment for someone who has not seen the show before. However, after a few more obvious introductions of characters, it’s easy to grasp where and what is going on.
The set of the production features two mighty crucifixes, one standing tall and the other lying horizontally. The latter serves as a platform for Caiaphas and his acolytes, as well as the table bearing the last supper in act two which i thought was a nice touch. At the heart of the set design lies a striking composite of lighting rigs and sound equipment, which is another modern use of a rock concert used in a symbolic way. With the band positioned onstage, the multi-level setup provides dynamic spaces for the cast to navigate, complemented by creative lighting that enhances the immersive theatrical experience where you have to read between the lines for the meaning.
Olivier Award-nominated Ian Mcintosh delivers a poignant portrayal of Jesus, eschewing the traditional long-haired depiction for a more modern interpretation with a cap and short hair. His vocally and emotionally compelling performance adds depth to the character and enhanced the modernistic vibe to the show. The flogging scene, where gold glitter is used as a whip to add a sense of blood and a crack from percussion, was the standout scene for me, adding to the brilliant contemporary effect.
Hannah Richardson captivates as Mary, her flawless vocals infusing her rendition of “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” with a smooth, Nashville-esque quality.
Ryan O’Donnel’s portrayal of Pilate, dressed as a Roman-inspired rock baddie, exudes a chilling blend of cold disinterest and genuine remorse, adding depth to the character dynamics.
Watch out for a scene stealing introduction by Timo Tatzber. The second act appearance of King Herod made this production very memorable, his performance quickly changes the tempo and adds a camp cabaret element, adding a nice touch of sparkle to the role.
However, it’s the ensemble cast that truly shines, elevating the performance with their contemporary and energetic choreography, seamlessly integrated with the powerful vocals.
“Jesus Christ Superstar” remains a potent and thought-provoking tale, brought to life with vibrant energy and contemporary flair in this production. As the strains of the final musical crescendo linger in the air, there’s a hint of something greater—a testament to the enduring power of what is quite literaly the oldest story in the book.
Age guidance 10+
Running Time: Act 1: 45 mins, 20-minute interval, Act 2: 50 mins
Tickets are available via the WMC website www.wmc.org.uk/en/whats-on/2024/jesus-christ-superstar
