For the first time in more than 40 years,...
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Jesus Christ Superstar at the Muny until June 18
A scene from The Muny playing through Sunday’s opening nightproduction of Jesus Christ Superstar
‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ Opens
Muny’s 99th Season in Super Fashion
by Pat Lindsey
Just as the thermometer hit 95 degrees, The Muny opened its 99th super season with a super production of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar.’ And even though Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice wrote the rock opera in 1970, it remains a fresh and poignant human story laced with the social issues of today–bullying, deceit, brutality, hatred, compassion and love. The messages are so gut-wrenching that the audience doesn’t always know whether or not to applaud after some scenes, as it awaits the inevitable ending.
Strong, beautiful voices pay homage to a score that was hailed the best selling album of 1971. Bryce Ryness as Jesus of Nazareth, Constantine Maroulis as Judas Iscariot, and Ciara Renee as Mary Magdalene give outstanding performances in the lead roles. Christopher Sieber, who plays King Herod, adds levity to the show as he struts across the stage in his green sequined suit flanked by a quartet of glittery backup singers.The show opens with a set that reminded me of ‘West Side Story.’ There were chain link fences topped with razor blades, gangs fighting in the street, and chaos that only Jesus was capable of calming.
Then, another set moves us forward into more modern times with the giant video screen at the back of the stage displaying Jerusalem TV call letters and projecting live placard-carrying protestors in CNN style. As the story becomes more solemn, the set progresses to Jesus on the cross.
‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ is an emotionally stirring and entertaining production that upholds the Muny’s motto of being “Alone in Its Greatness.”
Muny patrons should plan on arriving at the theater a little earlier than usual, because increased security is creating longer lines in the wings. Anyone who does not carry a bag may enter a through a separate line without going through a security check.
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