Jesus Christ Superstar

Review by Noah

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Ten years on from its revival at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, Jesus Christ Superstar is resurrected at The London Palladium for a summer season, and it sure brings the heat!

Focusing on the final week of Jesus' life, the show allows the audience to see things from the perspective of Judas, who, feeling that Christ is a threat to the Roman rule, betrays him and triggers the harrowing and haunting events that lead to Jesus' death.

The production grabs your attention and keeps it from start to finish, utilising the show-stopping score, angelically crafted by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. From heavenly harmonies to punchy power chords, the music transports you to the time of the story, as it transcends the norm of musical theatre.

In order to get these lyrics and story across, a celestial cast is needed. Look no further than the dynamic duo of Sam Ryder (Jesus) and Tyrone Huntley (Judas). Between them, they combine soulful soliloquies and powerful processions to create the ultimate soundtrack. This is particularly shown in "Gethsemane" and "Judas's Death" respectively- the former bringing goosebumps and a well-earned mid-show standing ovation. Everybody in the cast played their role to perfection. A special mention also to Jesse Tyler Ferguson, who makes every second count with his cameo as King Herod, dazzling the audience physically and vocally.

Drew Mconie's choreography helps bring the whole piece together. Sharp, suspenseful and scintillating, it provides a constant energy throughout. This, paired with the simplistic yet incredible set design, courtesy of Tom Scutt, ensures the show evokes emotion in the audience with each song.

If you're wondering What's The Buzz, you've found it. This Superstar production shows no signs of slowing down and will leave you feeling fulfilled and with Heaven on your Minds.