Jesus Christ Superstar
Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Book and Lyrics by Tim Rice
North Texas Performing Arts Repertory
Directed by Nick Mann
Music Director - Billy Veer
Audience rating: PG
Running Time: 2 hours including 15 minute intermission
Accessible Seating: Yes
Hearing Devices: Not available
Sensory Friendly Showing: Not available
ASL Showing: Available
Sound Level: Comfortable
Noises or Visuals to Prepare for: Prop gun (not fired), Adult Themes, Drinking, Drugs & Smoking, Mild Language, Depictions of Violence/Death
Reviewed by Stacey Calvert
I was pleased to get to see NTPA Repertory’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar” this weekend in its limited run. The company and creative team created an intimate and deeply meaningful experience for the audience.
Premiering on stage in 1971 with score by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Tim Rice, Jesus Christ Superstar is a retelling of The Passion of Christ and the events that led to his crucifixion, primarily from the viewpoint of Judas Iscariot. Unlike in most musicals, there’s not much spoken dialogue: the story plays out primarily through song as a rock opera. Although JCS has a distinctive, early 70s vibe that can’t be avoided, I appreciated how Director Nick Mann and the creative team targeted a more futuristic look and feel for this production. The set and costumes had a grubby, dark, apocalyptic look that put the focus squarely on the story. The lighting (designed by Jude Scott) and atmospheric smoke added to this effect and gave us moments of stunningly stark visuals, especially during the Last Supper and Crucifixion scenes.
After some audio difficulties in the first half were resolved, I was able to more fully appreciate the excellent performances of Sawyer Bell as Jesus and Apollo Harris as Judas Iscariot. These roles are incredibly difficult to pull off, and both actors capably managed the raw emotion, textual interpretation, and go-for-broke rock singing required of their roles. Bell’s lament in the second act “Gethsemane (I Only Want to Say)” in which Jesus expresses his anger and sorrow at the betrayal, pain, and death he knows is to come, was particularly moving and beautifully sung.
The ensemble/apostles ably and energetically supported the action throughout, transforming from loving disciples to fickle, angry crowd to backup singers with ease. Music Director Billy Veer is to be commended for the full sound of the ensemble, especially during highly-choreographed numbers. Troy Murray as King Herod, Ed Kless as Pontius Pilate, Tristan Rolater as Caiaphas, and Paris Batjer as Annas were very good in their supporting roles, adding depth to the story with their acting choices and excellent, clear singing in their solo parts. Murray’s turn as Herod made great use of his comedic chops and over-the-top physicality.
The show moved quickly, with running time just under two hours even with an intermission. This quickness throughout Act 1 and most of Act 2 was contrasted with the slow, agonizing pace of the torture, suffering, and death of Jesus later in Act 2 and gave the audience time to fully experience the impact of these sorrowful moments.
I must mention the incredibly talented Amanda Reid’s portrayal of Mary Magdalene. Although Reid has performed many times over the years as a veteran of NTPA Academy youth productions, this was my first time seeing her. I was amazed to see in the program that she’s only now starting her sophomore year of her BFA studies. Reid has the refined acting demeanor and polished vocal skill of a much more mature actor. Her voice is so warm, beautiful, and controlled, I never wanted her songs to end. I was not at all surprised to see that she’s already started her journey as a professional actor and can’t wait to see where she takes her extraordinary talents next.
After seeing this show, I reflected once again how wonderful it is to be able to see top-notch live theatre right here in North Texas. Support your local theatres and go see a show next weekend!
On with the show,
Stacey Calvert
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