Jesus Christ Superstar

This was a very stylish production. The gradual entrance of the ensemble during the overture was beautifully timed and was quite riveting and then with Judas’ rendition of “Heaven on their Minds” the audience was totally hooked.

Stephen Lilly was a charismatic Jesus, combining his authority with his quiet sensitive side. His trial and crucifixion was very moving, and there were quite a few tears shed in the audience. Peter Ward was tremendous as the complex Judas and his indecision was well portrayed. Vicky Dodimead was a convincing Mary Magdalene, although she was a little too familiar with Jesus for my taste.

Roger Lamb was a commanding and manipulative Caiaphas and Mark Allen was perfect as King Herod – bringing just a little lightness to the drama. Pontius Pilate was very convincingly played by Mike Pavitt, showing the characters doubts, along with some tremendous singing. The minor roles were all played confidently, again with good singing.

The ensemble worked tremendously hard, constantly changing roles and characters. Jesus’ “groupies” were very convincing, with real passion in their eyes. I was very impressed with their commitment and confidence in the many exits and entrances, and they sang with great gusto!

The costumes, although basically quite ordinary, (apart from the priests costumes – very grand) were well thought out, with just the dancers and Herod adding a splash of colour.

At first I wasn’t too impressed with the set, but as events unfolded the heavy, dark wall became more significant and the use of different levels, together with the magnificent lighting, became an important part of the action. I usually only take detailed notice of the lighting when I am a bit bored, but on this occasion I was amazed by the stunning effects. Adrian and his team are to be congratulated.

Nigel and the orchestra were fantastic, and the music was quite thrilling. At times they played a little too enthusiastically, drowning some of the lyrics but overall they were splendid. Nigel must also be commended for his work with the principals. They produced notes that I had never heard them use before. Roger Lambs’ tremendously deep voice was superb and Stephen and Peter high register was amazing.

This is a very difficult show to stage successfully – a mix of strident rock and rebellion, with the great underlying themes of love and redemption – but the society sympathetically combined the dramatic elements of the story with the bright, brash music. This was a most enjoyable production, but also a very emotional experience.

Victoria Luke, the director, and the company, both front and back stage, must be congratulated on a splendid production.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.