The first musical by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber to be produced for the professional stage, ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ has wowed audiences for over fifty years. A timeless work, the rock opera is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary and universally-known series of events, but seen – usually – through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. Loosely based on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, ‘JCS’ follows the last week of Jesus Christ’s life.
The story – told entirely through song – explores the personal relationships and struggles between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdelene, his disciples, his followers, and the Roman Empire. The iconic 1970s rock score contains such well-known numbers as: ‘Superstar’, ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him’, and ‘Gethsemane’.
Whilst keeping the integrity of the original show, the vision of director Sarah Brodie from BSEODS, brings it into the 21st Century to make it relevant to the world we live in through her interpretation of the story’s parallel with today’s ‘Cult of Celebrity’ and the way that social media information/misinformation can fuel this and facilitate ‘cancel culture’.
Within this production, the ensemble view everything as if it’s media consumption; like they’re being ‘influenced’. This will take us through key story beats, from Jesus being a ‘viral sensation’ in the early stages of the show (‘What’s the Buzz’, ‘Hosannah’), to becoming the reluctant face of a rebellion in the same vein as the US Capitol riots (‘Simon Zealotes’), to the beginnings of his downfall in the temple scene, and finally to his ultimate betrayal, trials and death. Social media – and the soundbites and ‘clickbait’ that go along with it – will feature onstage throughout the production.
Sarah says “This is going to be an exciting, dramatic, and fast-paced show, which will rely heavily on technical elements and acting to tell the story to our audiences.”
Alongside Sarah, the cast have been under the expert tutelage of Musical Director Graham (Gaz) Brown who has focused on bringing out the rock opera style whilst also keeping voices safe and healthy during this demanding production. Choreographer Abigail Love Longworth has brought a freshness and energy to the dance numbers that blends seamlessly with Sarah & Gaz’s concept of the show.
Tickets range from £12.50-£24 and are available from the Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds website or their Box Office on 01284 769505. The Saturday matinee is a closed-captioned performance.
SUFFOLK THEATRE 