“Jesus Christ Superstar”

[rating=5] Before the pandemic, we were treated to the Lyric Opera’s version of “Jesus Christ Superstar” written by Tim Rice ( Lyrics) and Andrew Lloyd Webber ( music). As we all know, while it has become a cult favorite, it also propelled them forward into the world of Musical Theatre. “Jesus Christ Superstar” is an iconic musical phenomenon. Theater is back and in celebration of its 50th Anniversary, a new mesmerizing production comes to North America. Originally staged by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, this production won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival garnering unprecedented reviews and accolades. Appealing to both theater audiences and concert music fans, this production pays tribute to the historic 1971 Billboard Album of the Year while creating a modern, theatrical world that is uniquely fresh and inspiring. Featuring award-winning music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, 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. Many Chicago area audiences have just watched “Godspell” at TheoUbique in Evanston, which is another musical depicting a different view of the same Passover season. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him’, ‘Gethsemane’ and ‘Superstar’.

There are many who look at this musical as the standard for the new age musical ( think “Rent”, “Cats” “Le Miz” and many more musicals that are more lyrics than dialogue. Many of the new productions tend to develop a following that some consider cult-like. “Jesus Christ Superstar” truly fits into this category! The production now on the stage at The Cadillac Palace Theatre is one solid production. For those unaware of the show, it is 90 minutes of pure storytelling. It is the tale of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ (Aaron LaVigne who is an amazing talent), but, as seen thru the character  Judas (Omar Lopez-Cepero). The energy of these two performers is absolutely top notch. One can feel exactly what is going on in their heads and in the final scenes, a tear will fall from your eye.

This is a dynamite cast that is high in energy and the voices that bring these lyrics to us will excite and delight you. Mary ( played to perfection by Jenna Rubaii) will reach into your heart with “I Don’t Know How To Love Him” Alvin Crawford will astound you as Caiaphas. Tommy McDowell’s voice reaches new highs and the first , second and third Priests (Brian Golub, Garfield Hammonds and Darrell T. Joe, with the deepest voice you have ever heard) truly set the tone. As I said, this cast is highly energetic.

Directed by Timothy Sheader with Choreography by Drew McOnie, this production is different than previous ones we have seen. Over the years little things have changed, but as I always say” a new director with a new cast on a new stage will have a different interpretation and therefore, we will see a different product”. I stand by that and this production truly proves that to be the case.

I wish I had the pose of the cast falling into place for The Last Supper- it certainly hit hard. This is a tour and so the Chicago time is limited. My suggestion, see it now. This production is one that will entertain you and make you think.