OBSERVER: Jesus Christ Superstar
The Rice-Webber production of Jesus Christ Superstar first appeared in Melbourne in 1972. This revival directed by Timothy Scheader proves that the original composer and lyricist have written something of enduring significance. From the opening chords of the electric guitar we are shaken from our theological complacency into new ways of looking at an ageless story.
The hoodies on the disciples in this iteration, the microphones attached to spears and staves, and the industrial feel of the set (Tom Scutt) suggests we are in a hyper intense contemporary musical setting.
And nearly every scene has been choreographed (Drew McOnie) insinuating continual movement.
Michael Paynter as Jesus and Javon King as Judas have vocal ranges that defy gravity. The physicality of Paynter’s vocals earned him a standing ovation half way through Gethsemane.
But the lyricism of Mary’s ballad (Mahalia Barnes) and also her duet with Peter (Tana Laga’aia) provide a counterpoint of pathos and helplessness.
Again, this is a tribute to how Rice and Webber constructed the original. This is also evident in Reuben Kaye’s delightfully camp Herod. It is a theatrical conceit that allows for grandeur and opulence in the middle of what is, ostensibly, a tragic story.
There are quirky elements to the production. The nod to the Last Supper was inspired but, in the end, the musical industry references to microphones – Jesus is crucified on a stand that held a speaker and Judas’s red microphone cord left dangling to suggest suicide don’t quite hold. And some of the more muted choreography of the second half seemed more in keeping with the storyline than the overly energetic first half. Regardless, this is a powerful rendition of a theatrical work that has endured and still speaks today.
Playing for a limited season at the Princess Theatre, Melbourne.
Bookings: jesuschristsuperstarmusical.com.
au/
Review by David McLean
Pictured: Michael Paynter (Jesus) and Mahalia Barne (Mary) in Jesus Christ Superstar. Photo: Jeff Busby

