7 October 2023 I 14:30 I Hull New Theatre
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Jesus Christ Superstar's 2023/24 production sees a fiery, gritty take on the Andrew Lloyd Webber classic. Revived from Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, the 1971 musical is industrialised and modernised into a punky, anarchic concert roaring onto stages nationwide. At Hull New Theatre, we sat front row for this rock spectacular, and as you can see from the image, you are nothing short of close to the action! It cannot be mistaken that Tim Sheader's style has the power to make you shrink back into your seat with such force, though occasional creative decisions can lead to controversy in such a traditional musical.
Featuring an iconic score, including songs Hosanna and What's The Buzz?, Drew McOnie's choreography is the forefront of a contemporary dance led show. Combining this heavy movement with a rock concert is an unusual combination. It did take me a while to warm to this, until the second act to fully appreciate it in it's form. McOnie has a remarkable way of infusing a modernity within the score, coming to terms with a more profound symbolism. The ensemble's diverse range of physicalisation is the main aspect that I cannot stop thinking about, including their resonance with Tim Rice's lyrics.
Jesus Christ Superstar throws audiences into the religious story of Jesus' last days ahead of his crucifixion. Personally, I didn't know much on these accounts, as we are placed towards the end of an extraordinary series. As the show is alike a concert, less focus is directed toward the plot, where for the most part I struggle to follow along. There is a lot of backstory and character relationships you aren't given. Even post-performance, I'm not certain that I could explain the details of what happened, though the entertainment factor can partially overlook this, as a tremendously enjoyable show.
Leading the show as Jesus, Ian McIntosh gives a vigorous rendition of the role, possessing one of those voices which just make your jaw fall down in amazement. Particularly with Gethsemane, floored beyond words! Being so close as he finishes the song, kneeling and fighting for breath, a masterpiece to witness! Starring opposite as Judas, Shem Omari James is simply breathtaking! After these two hit the stage, it's a surprise there's still a roof on Hull New Theatre! The vocal ability is outstanding, and as leading men they compliment each other perfectly. Louder vocals can lose enunciation at times, due to a high sound mixing, nonetheless McIntosh and James are exquisite, couldn't have asked for a better pairing!
While these two have phenomenal talent, I find that Hannah Richardson (Mary) and Timo Tatzber (King Herod) are the understated roles that find the unique moments of the show, saving it from becoming one-note. Richardson's songs are beautifully delivered against the unruly rock vibe, and Tatzber is so wonderfully camp and playful as Herod. As I left the theatre, I wish there was more to see from these two, as it feels they have a lot more passion to give. And Ryan O'Donnell's Pilate is a genuinely menacing antagonist during Act 2, really selling the desired aggressive force. The whole team behind this show are just too talented for this earth!
If you are fortunate enough to see this adaptation, it is undeniable that the ensemble are THE driving force, it wouldn't be nearly the spectacular it is without their determination. You feel tired just watching them, producing pure theatre magic! The mic-ography, if you will, and the disturbing atmosphere bodies can create onstage is outstanding.
Poppy Hall's street inspired costume is really interesting, and for the most part works in this style, though occasionally there is some inconsistency with Sheader's vision. Prop work is gorgeously done, most notably with the flogging sequence, which is increasing hard to watch with its brutality. Tom Deering's musical supervision with the onstage band breathes an intensity and viscerally haunting soundscape to the piece.
It takes a while to adjust to the style of Sheader's adaptation of Jesus Christ Superstar in a perplexing plot to follow. However, after seeing this performance, I just cannot stop thinking about it, where not only is the show entertaining, but it gives audiences gripping images that will last in my head a long time. There is an unbelievable amount to digest, and I could only wish to see it once more and relive the experience. It is a revolution in musical theatre, and I suggest you check it out for yourself!
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