Jesus Christ returned to the stage with the opening of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Saenger Theatre last Tuesday during its ongoing 50th Anniversary Tour. The production brings the classic musical to a whole new audience with numerous exciting updates including a more modern approach to the choreography, costuming, and set design fit for the Son of God.
A Modern Take on a Biblical Tale
Jesus Christ Superstar is a rock-opera that follows the tale of Jesus' persecution and subsequent crucifixion, a period of time in his life known as "The Passion." We meet Jesus ((portrayed by Jack Hopewell) and his followers as the curtains rise, highlighting his influence as the Roman Empire decides they must put a stop to his teachings. Here, we are also introduced to Judas (portrayed by Elvie Ellis), as well as the other disciples. While the set stays fixed throughout the show, the ensemble and other title characters help the audience to immerse ourselves into the time period, and they allow us to understand that we are in different locations flawlessly.
Christ Gets a Modern Makeover
The production attempts a more modern approach to costuming, done by Tom Scutt, including the titular role of Jesus clad in earth-toned skinny jeans and a man bun. Jesus and his followers are dressed in flowing earth-tones of brown and green, while those associated with the Roman Empire are dressed in imposing black costumes and leather, indicating their intentions to smother the Prophet. To highlight the conflict, Judas' costume shifts from the earth-tones of the followers into a full black ensemble by the end, referencing his betrayal of Jesus (spoiler alert for those who didn't know of this plot point, but the Bible has been out for almost 3000 years, they've given you ample time to read it).
Also carrying the show into the 21st century is wonderfully updated choreography by Drew McOnie, which takes a more modern approach to this classic musical, making it feel fresh and new despite having originally debuted in 1971. The use of handheld microphones as props helps to ground the show within the rock-opera style, giving the audience a visual indication of character importance and allowing for more cohesive choreography and acting choices.
Jesus is Not the Only Superstar
While Jesus remains the central figure throughout, the real superstars of the production are the Ensemble, who work together flawlessly to create shapes and movement throughout on a relatively small stage. Each number is a work of art, and every member of the Ensemble was on their A-game as they created stunningly in sync movements that allowed for a visual journey to take place alongside the musical one.
Erich W. Schleck gives a showstopping performance as Herod, simultaneously capturing the audience as one of the main villains while doing so in glittery knee-high boots. With only one song, it was clear that Schleck was an audience favorite after getting the loudest applause heard that night. The persecution of Jesus has never been so glamorous. Annas and Caiaphas, two High Priests anointed by the Romans and sent to arrest and kill Jesus, are played by Kodiak Thompson and Issac Ryckeghem, respectively. Every song, every appearance, every reference done by the duo was villainous and oh-so entertaining, because even though we all knew where the story was heading, the two had the audience on the edge of their seats and they performed fabulously. Kodiak Thompson took the character of Annas in a particularly interesting direction, choosing to forgo the traditionally rough and scratchy vocal performance seen in numerous productions of the show prior, and instead gave a very clean rendition of the songs. This allowed for a more cold approach to the role, which paired nicely with the costuming choices of all-black and Thompson's platinum blonde hair. Both Thomspon and Ryckeghem left me wanting even more.
Jesus Christ Superstar has had new life breathed into it, and even if you've read the Bible from cover to cover, you won't want to miss it. Jesus Christ Superstar will play at the Saenger Theatre through January 15.
