Review: Jesus Christ Superstar at The Scott Theatre

Jesus Christ Superstar, the iconic rock musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, remains a powerful and thought-provoking retelling of the last days of Jesus Christ. Blending a compelling narrative with unforgettable music, this production, gloriously directed by George Torbay, captivates audiences with its contemporary relevance and emotional depth. Presented by the graduating students of Elder Conservatorium Music Theatre, this musical is a brilliant showcase of the talent to come out of this world class course.

From the opening number, the energy is palpable, where the incredible lighting and soundtrack smack you in the face and reverberate through your core.

The score features a blend of soaring ballads to pulsating rock anthems, making each song memorable. From the well-known ensemble number ‘What’s The Buzz’ to Mary Magdalene’s poignant ‘Everything’s Alright’ while “Superstar” electrifies the stage, capturing the essence of fame and its consequences. Paul Sinkinson’s musical direction is marvellous, bringing a fresh vitality to the score while maintaining the integrity of the original compositions. Expertly balancing the rock elements and emotional weight of the story, the orchestration is crisp and vibrant.

The performances are nothing short of stellar. The portrayal of Jesus, often a challenging role, is executed with both sensitivity and strength by Oliver Johns. His vocal abilities, as needed for this role, are a triumph – hitting the explosive high notes and bringing it back to a whispered warmth.

The cast’s chemistry brings to life the complex relationships between Jesus, Judas, and the other disciples.

Judas Iscariot, portrayed with intense emotional depth, is another standout. The character’s internal conflict is palpable; his desire to protect Jesus clashes with his growing doubts. Ben Jones’ powerful vocals bring a raw edge to songs like “Heaven on Their Minds,” conveying a sense of urgency and desperation that draws the audience into his turmoil.

Mary Magdalene’s character is beautifully explored. Her performance captures a profound mix of vulnerability and strength, showcasing her emotional unrest as she navigates her feelings for Jesus. Sophie Volp’s voice soars with both tenderness and passion, with an exquisite caressing lyricism, leaving the audience hanging on every note.

The supporting characters and ensemble play a crucial role in bringing the story to life, creating a radiant tapestry of characters that enrich the narrative. Their energy is infectious, and their harmonies rich and tight, seamlessly blending to form a cohesive unit that enhances each scene. Whether they’re portraying the disciples, the crowd, or various figures in the backdrop, their commitment to the material elevates the overall performance. Each member brings individuality to their roles, contributing to the sense of community and conflict that permeates the story.

The twelve disciples are portrayed with distinct personalities and emotional arcs. Each disciple adds their own flavour to the narrative, showcasing a range of loyalties and doubts, with Brendan Tomlins and Jess Allsop excelling as Peter and Simon. The chemistry among them is palpable, and their interactions reflect the tensions and camaraderie of their journey with Jesus.

Special mention to Kaemon Wilcox [that lower register was a spectacular surprise!] and Darcy Wain as Caiaphas and Annas respectively.

The choreography is an absolute standout. Zoe Komazec and Alexander Kermond created a perfect balance of precision and expressiveness. Their choreography incorporates a range of styles, from powerful, contemporary/hip hop group numbers that reflect the chaos of the times to more fluid, lyrical movements that highlight personal struggles.

Particularly noteworthy is the choreography during “Superstar,” where the ensemble’s movements mirror the frenetic energy of fame and public perception. King Herod’s Song tap number is fabulous and the tableau of the last supper was very clever.

The staging, designed by the superb Simon Greer, is innovative, effectively using minimalistic scaffolding as a set and striking visual banners to create a sense of time and place that feels both ancient and modern. This allows the audience to focus on the characters and their emotional journeys, reinforcing the timeless nature of the story.

The lighting, by Chris Snape, is almost its own show. From the dramatic spotlighting during pivotal moments [the beam on Judas’ hand during the betrayal was outstanding] to the soft washes, the lighting effectively underscores the emotional landscape of the story.

Jesus Christ Superstar is a stunning theatrical experience that combines powerful music, dynamic performances, and thought-provoking themes. The themes of betrayal, sacrifice, and the search for meaning resonate deeply, encouraging reflection on faith, love and the human condition.

Bravo graduating class!

4.5 stars

Lia Loves.