Local News for the Vale

Review: Jesus Christ Superstar

By Chloe Monaghan | Updated Tuesday 30th January 2024 4:25pm |  Follow us @broradio

Jesus Christ Superstar has arrived at Wales Millennium Centre and is here until February the 3^rd 2024.

This is not a nativity nor is it anything like a Sunday service in the village church.  This is the story of Jesus's adult life, and his crucifixion, told with electric guitars, rock opera and creative choreography. A story of love, beliefs and betrayal guided by the stunning music and lyrics from the genius duo of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber and Sir Tim Rice.

This production feels fresh and so current. With costumes giving on-trend street wear vibes and a set that resembles current music videos, it is hard to believe that this musical premiered in 1971.

Anyone who knows the show will know how big these songs are and not one of these cast members will disappoint with their performances. Hannah Richardson, playing the part of Mary, sang  I don't know how to love him effortlessly with a voice perfectly oozing with love and passion. Whilst the incredible and beautiful vocal range of Shem Omari James allowed him to deliver a powerful performance as Judas with his strongest moments being during his demise and after his death.

Now let's talk about Ian Mckintosh aka Jesus. I am not sure if it's blasphemy to say he is my all-time favourite Jesus (and this is far from my first time seeing this musical). He was the definition of divine. He took small moments to put his own stamp on this role played by so many great names and each of these moments was just stunning.

There was nothing more perfect than the moment, the heavenly lighting, spotlit McKintosh with his guitar, as he delivered his standout performance of Gethsemane. Not one note was missed or compromised. He is definitely the Jesus the audience prayed for and this was obvious by the extended applause after just this one song alone.

Ryan O'Donnell progresses the part of Pilate through the performance brilliantly and his rock star vocals are emphasised with dramatic concert-style smoke and lights. Whilst Jad Habchi (who plays Caiaphas) sends his booming bass vocals right to your soul.

Just as you think it's all doom and gloom, along comes Herod (Timo Tatzber) with his over-the-top, shiny outfit and powerfully camp and humorous performance somewhat reminiscent of an evil eccentric bond villain.

There are interesting staging ideas when it comes to big iconic moments, like when Judas dirties his hands with “blood money”, the moment Jesus receives his thirty-nine lashes, and the hanging of Judas. These are all done in ways I haven't seen before and I still can't decide if I love them or if I am too loyal to a more outdated version perhaps. However, I encourage you to go and see for yourselves as I am sure the addition of glitter and swinging microphones will keep you fascinated and I know for sure that the expressive dancing and unreal vocals of the whole cast, will make you pray it never ends.

Jesus Christ Superstar is at WMC until 3rd February, with more info and tickets available via https://www.wmc.org.uk/en/whats-on/2024/jesus-christ-superstar

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