‘Jesus Christ’ is Still a ‘Superstar’ 

After All These Years

                                         by Pat Lindsey

Imagine a rock opera having as much audience appeal today as it did more than 50 years ago. That’s exactly what’s happening with the “Jesus Christ Superstar” 50th Anniversary tour, which runs May 9-21 at the Fabulous Fox Theatre.

Andrew Lloyd Weber and Tim Rice were young men when they combined lyrics and music to create this 90-minute masterpiece about the last, most solemn, week of Jesus’ life, according to the Gospels.

In 1970, it was shocking to think that anyone would try to tell Jesus’ story with rock music. That shock factor has been accepted and accentuated with more concert-like vibes and passionate, frenetic energy among the cast members. The choreography by Drew McOnie is as electrified as the music created by the on-stage musicians. At times, the choreography becomes so hyperkinetic that I wondered how the cast members could possibly keep up the pace night after night.

There are subtle changes throughout the show that make it feel refreshed and updated. Jesus (played by Jack Hopewell) makes his first appearance on stage wearing a hoodie, a man bun, and a guitar around his neck. In fact, most of the cast members wear hoodies and baggy pants. Tom Scutt’s set design is updated with steel beams, two of which are lying on the stage floor in the configuration of a cross. Lighted crosses where the beams intersect are illuminated periodically. And the use of spotlights during the show add a modern eeriness to the set. The orchestra is elevated onstage on two levels of steel beams and soloists share hand-held microphones. During the song “Trial by Pilate/39 Lashes,” a percussionist makes the sound of the crack of a whip while a cast member throws handsful of glitter at Jesus. Glitter is another new shining element.

If you don’t know the songs already, some of the lyrics might be drowned out by the music. Thankfully, the most beautiful songs are clear as a bell. Faith Jones gives a wonderfully gentle portrayal of Mary singing “I Don’t Know How to Love Him.”   Elvie Ellis as Judas has a commanding presence on stage from the moment he opens with “Heaven on Their Minds.” He and Jack Hopewell (Jesus) thrill the audience whenever they hit their high notes. And Erich W. Schleck as Herod is a standout in his gold costume as he sings “Herod’s Song.” Of course, the most well-known song is “Superstar.”

Andrew Lloyd Weber and Tim Rice have paired a stirring, well-known story with great music that has passed the test of time. Add to that a strong cast with dynamite vocals and rockin’ musicians and you have a superstar of a rock opera. “Jesus Christ Superstar” is the final show of the Broadway series this season at The Fabulous Fox. It will be playing now through May 21. Tickets are on sale at MetroTix, 314-534-1111 or visit MetroTix.co