Jesus Christ Superstar Review

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Having only heard amazing things about Jesus Christ Superstar, I was thoroughly looking forward to seeing it during its tour!

Considering its longevity and success, it’s hard to believe that it was initially unable to get backing for a stage production. It was released as a concept album, the success of which led to the show's Broadway debut in 1971. By 1980, it had grossed more than $237 million worldwide. Running for over eight years in London between 1972 and 1980, it held the record for longest-running West End musical before it was overtaken by Cats in 1989.

The Regent Theatre in Stoke On Trent is the now hosting the popular musical! It’s a breathtaking spectacle that combines stunning visuals, powerhouse performances, and the iconic musical genius of Tim Rice & Andrew Lloyd Webber. From the moment the curtain rises, the audience is transported into the tumultuous world of ancient Jerusalem, albeit with a modern spin, and we see the timeless story of Jesus Christ unfold.

The cast deliver standout performances that breathe new life into beloved & well known characters. Jesus is portrayed with raw emotion and vocal prowess by Ian McKintosh. He commands the stage with an impressive presence, while Luke Street’s conflicted portrayal of Jusas adds depth and complexity to the narrative. Their voices were simply incredible! Each member of the cast brings their A-game, seamlessly blending harmonies and executing intricate choreography with precision & grace.

The production's set design is nothing short of spectacular, seamlessly transitioning from the bustling streets of Jerusalem to the intimate moments shared between Jesus and his disciples around the table. Lighting and sound effects enhance the dramatic tension, drawing the audience deeper into the story's emotional core and some of the effects used are massively creative.

But perhaps the true star of the show is the music itself. A musical is nothing without its band, and taking their rightful place on the stage rather than being hidden under it, these guys smashed it. From the anthemic "Superstar" to the haunting "Gethsemane (I Only Want to Say)," every song is a showstopper, expertly performed by a talented cast and backed by a powerhouse band! The guy on electric guitar was absolutely incredible!

So did I love it? I absolutely did, but I have to say I much prefer musicals with monologue between the musical numbers as following a story purely through song can be challenging if you don’t quite catch all of the lyrics. This is a full on rock opera, with songs that took on the style of bands such as AC/DC and The Scorpions, right through to the more intricate tones of Pink Floyd & David Bowie.
For me personally, the first act was quite difficult to follow, and considering I went to church a lot as a boy, this surprised me. But the second act was a little easier as the majority of people will know what happens from the point Jesus is arrested up to his crucifixion, simply from belting out a few “Jesus Bangers” on the sports hall floor during assembly at school all of those years ago. I also wondered whether Judas was the protagonist in this show rather than Jesus?

In a nutshell, Jesus Christ Superstar is a triumph of musical theatre that will leave audiences astounded. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the original production or experiencing a more modern take for the first time, this is a theatrical journey not to be missed. Grab your tickets now and prepare to be amazed.

Verdict: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Jesus Christine Superstar is playing at the Regent Theatre NOW, up until and including Saturday 24th January. Tickets are on sale and are available by calling the Regent Theatre Box Office on 0844 871 7649. You can also visit www.atgtickets.com/stoke for tickets and info.