Over fifty years since its first appearance on Broadway, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ
Superstar continues to thrill and entertain. In Edinburgh for just one week, director Timothy Sheader
brings a fresh and enthralling perspective on this classic.
With the actors using handheld mics, Jesus playing the guitar and the stage drowning in smoke and
lights, there is a feel of watching a rockstar’s biopic. More than the imagery they elicit, the concert
microphones are woven into the plot: they double as sceptres in the hands of Caïaphas; depict
power struggles between Judas and Mary Magdalene (notably an electric scene when both refuse to
let go of one); and elicit a gasp from the audience after ‘Judas’ Death’ as the red string of Shem
Omari James’ mic hangs ominously.
Where the first act is a little slow-paced, the second act fleshes out the characters and is a delight to
watch. Hannah Richardson’s rendition of ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him’ is captivating, humanising
Mary Magdalene; Ian McIntosh’s powerful vocals make for a heart-wrenching rendition of
‘Gethsemane’. The choice of playing on an acoustic guitar for the initial verses gives it an unusually
energetic feel which soon transforms into angst-filled rockstar despair. The lights dramatically
shining upon a previously unseen cross are incredibly well-timed. Another standout moment is when
Judas goes to grab the “blood” money and retreats in horror as he stares into his glitter-stained
hands. The lights, Shem Omari James’ acting and the choreography provide the perfect shock right
before the interval.
In general, the use of glitter for blood is incredibly fitting and the light play is masterful throughout
the performance. The mixing of classic and modern, particularly in the choice of costumes, makes for
an energetic and enjoyable production peppered with emotional gut punches.
Image provided via Edinburgh Playhouse Press Release