Last night we got to witness the phenomenon that is Jesus Christ Superstar and the hype is not wrong. This epic production delivers on every level.
You’re likely already familiar with the soundtrack and the story, but what truly completes the puzzle is the live production itself. It’s when you witness it firsthand that you realize everything leading up to this moment has been building to something extraordinary. Nothing could have prepared me for the multitude of levels on which I would be absolutely blown away by the entire experience.
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Jesus Christ Superstar Review
A Little About Jesus Christ Superstar
“Jesus Christ Superstar” is a rock opera that reimagines the final week of Jesus Christ’s life, primarily from the perspective of Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus’s disciples. The story explores the interpersonal dynamics and political and religious tensions of the time, delving into the events leading up to Jesus’s crucifixion.
It presents a nuanced portrayal of characters such as Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, Pontius Pilate, Caiaphas, and King Herod, providing a fresh interpretation of their motivations and relationships. Using contemporary music to offer a unique perspective on the biblical narrative, raising questions about faith, loyalty, and the nature of Jesus’s divinity.
Our Review of Jesus Christ Superstar
“Jesus Christ Superstar” operates on multiple levels. First and foremost, it narrates the account of Jesus Christ and his final days. While most of us are acquainted with these stories from our upbringing, witnessing them portrayed in this manner is emotionally intense. It lays bare the cruelty and deceit that unfolded before Jesus’s crucifixion, which was difficult when seen on stage.
Yet, there’s another layer that makes this production universally relatable: you can recognize elements of people you know in each character. I could discern traces of my own acquaintances in the roles of Jesus, Judas, and Mary Magdalene. It reminded me of the people in our lives who remain steadfast no matter the circumstances, as well as those who might seemingly be friendly but are capable of deceit. The entire experience felt deeply profound.
Stand Out Moments
“I Don’t Know How to Love Him” is one of my favourite musical songs ever, and Hannah Richardson was breathtaking. Ian McIntoshs rendition of “Gethsemane” brought the house down.
I couldnt fault one second of Jesus Christ Superstar, the show started with a bang and kept a fast pace throughout that seemed to speed up time. There was no time the ponder or think, just take in every moment in wonder.
Julian Clareys King Herod brought in an element of campness that lightened the tone and brought laughter to an otherswise intense experience.
Should You See Jesus Christ Superstar?
Yes, its dark and light at the same time. Makes you think but also gets into your heart in a way I never expected. Its fast tempo, wierdly relatable and has an impact I have never experience before.
Where Can I See Jesus Christ Superstar?
It is playing at the Palace Theatre Manchester until Sat 23 Sep 2023. Tickets are available from £13.00.
It will then be showing at….
- King’s Theatre, Glasgow, Mon 16 Oct – Sat 21 Oct 2023
- Liverpool Empire, Mon 23 Oct – Sat 28 Oct 2023
- Milton Keynes Theatre, Mon 30 Oct – Sat 4 Nov 2023
- Bristol Hippodrome, Mon 11 Mar – Sat 16 Mar 2024
- Edinburgh Playhouse, Tue 6 Feb – Sat 10 Feb 2024
- Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Mon 19 Feb – Sat 24 Feb 2024
- New Theatre Oxford, Mon 6 May – Sat 11 May 2024
- New Wimbledon Theatre, Mon 13 May – Sat 18 May 2024
- New Victoria Theatre, Woking, Mon 3 Jun – Sat 8 Jun 2024
- Sunderland Empire, Tue 11 Jun – Sat 15 Jun 2024
- Princess Theatre, Torquay, Tue 16 Jul – Sat 20 Jul 2024
Please note I was gifted the ticket in return for an honest review.
Check out where to park near the Palace Theatre and if you are making a night of it, here are our restaurant suggestions.
Sarah Christie is a craft, food, cruise, and family travel blogger Extraordinary Chaos, Cruising For All and Mini Travellers. Known for her unique perspective and ability to find beauty in chaos, Sarah designs and creates craft projects as well as creating recipes for people who want to cook from scratch the easy way. Whilst also exploring family travel and how to navigate it.
We attended on the first night of this production and it wasn’t what we expected. As time went on the modern telling of the story became clear and excellently portrayed by the cast. Found the music was played loudly making it hard to hear the words. The one person who disappointed us was King Herod who was the main star. He appeared dressed in gold which must have cost twice as much as the whole casts clothing. He was on stage between 7 & 10 mins total and did not take part at the end with the casts curtain call. It’s still a god show for young people
I’m glad you enjoyed parts of it. I found that with music in Joseph and his technicolour dreamcoat. Hard to hear the words.