Hosanna, hey-sanna, hosanna

Andrew Lloyd Webber & Tim Rice’s cult rock/opera musical tells the story of the weeks leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion through the eyes of Judas. 

Being a ‘sung through’ musical with no dialogue, the story should still be the focus but there are many distractions that I personally felt made it hard to know what was going on. For one, the  choreography/dancing although outstanding, was a bit busy and over choreographed. For me this took away from the story itself at times. I also chatted to some other theatre goers around me who found the audio levels were set a little too loud and the vocals from the cast were peaking too high. This resulted in the lyrics being hard to understand and hear clearly at times. 

However having said that, all was not lost though as the sheer talent & emotion from the stella cast and ensemble was second to none. It’s this aspect of the production that you can’t fault and I often found my mouth open with disbelief in many moments throughout the show. 

A few standouts for me where…

Michael Paynter (Jesus) who absolutely stole the show. His rendition of Gethsemane was something to behold. It was powerful but had subtle elements that really showed the pain of the character. And his control in his upper register was mind blowing. He received a lengthy standing ovation at the end of the number (and a brief one during the number as well) and this was richly deserved. His performance of this song alone was well worth going to see the show. 

Judas played by Javon King, what can I say apart from “wow”, what an incredible Judas – with all the complex feelings of love and hate and jealousy and feeling torn between right and wrong. He was quite simply outstanding. 

I also need to mention, Graeme Isaako who plays Simon in the ensemble. There’s a moment in the piece where the character of Simon needs to deliver an incredible high note, and not only does Isaako nail  it, but he holds it for such an unbelievably long time with a fantastic strength of delivery! Pinch me, what a voice. I think Graeme (if he’s not an understudy already) could step onto the stage in a version where he plays Judas or even Jesus. 

Mahalia Barnes executed a beautiful and heartfelt version of Mary, and her take of ‘I Don’t Know How To Love Him’ was sublime. I really enjoyed it. 

Special mention to the High Priests, Annas (John O’Hara) and Caiaphas (Elliot Baker) who have voice registers deep as the ocean and their presence is chilling. The moment when they up-end their ceremonial staffs to become microphones is yet another play on power as is their demanding stage presence.  

Sadly, the show ends with the crucifixion, and with no sign of the Resurrection to come. In an odd and confusing ending the crucified and bloodied Jesus sits down with Judas at the end.

While I may be unpopular in some of my views and while it wasn’t my cup of tea, the talent as I said is out this world. But when you do choose to go along, even though it might not be your cup of tea (like me), I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

Jesus Christ Superstar is now playing at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre until June. For tickets or more information visit https://jesuschristsuperstarmusical.com.au

X Steph 

Photos by Jeff Busby