Jesus Christ Superstar

I think for someone to say they have “enjoyed” a production of Jesus Christ Superstar and found it “entertaining” are very strange comments to make, however I can say York Musical Theatre Company’s production of this hit musical was thoroughly entertaining albeit in a strange way. I say strange not because of the quality of the performances but because of the content of the actual show.

This was a superb production with every detail thought through by both the production team and the actors on stage.

Using a backdrop which could be classed as a building site this made a perfect setting on which to play out this well-known story.

From the start both John Whitney and Chris Mooney had the audience in the palms of their hands playing the parts of Jesus and Judas respectively. Both these two have excellent voices and were able to do justice to the mammoth parts and songs they had to undertake. This was evident when John delivered the iconic number Gethsemane, it was superb, in fact it was better than superb it was out of this world.

We all know of Mary Magdalene and of her love for Jesus, again this part calls for someone who can deliver the goods and here York MTC put it in the capable hands of Marlena Kellie, her singing of I Don’t Know How to Love Him was captivating.

I said this was a great production which it was and sometimes there are one or two members cast who are not quite as good as the main characters, however in this production I can honestly say there were no weak links and everyone was perfect in their respective roles with some really outstanding voices.

One of the lighter moments of the show is of course Herod’s Song where we see a little bit of Glitz and Sparkle and this was no exception when we had a brilliant performance from John Haigh as Herod who was joined by some great dancing girls.

Congratulations must go to everyone involved in this production especially Paul Laidlaw, Director, John Atkin, MD and Anna Michelson as the Director’s Assistant for having the vision and ability to deliver this outstanding show. 

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