Jesus Christ Superstar
This is One of Those Shows You Deserve to Witness in Person
Reviewed by Karina Lawrence
What an absolute Buzz in the air, from the moment you arrived at The Capitol Theatre Sydney, the energy was illuminating with celebrities and the who-who’s of the creative arts flooding the red carpet arrival.
Looking fabulous and glammed to the max with a “rockstar vibe”
Presented by John Frost and David Ian from Crossroads Live and Work Light Productions, this incredible master piece with Lyrics by Tim Rice and Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, is truly next level.
From the moment the music began with the Opening Overture, the sound and intensity of the music was truly electrifying, you just knew you were going to be in for a treat!
Directed by Timothy Sheader and Australian Associate Director, Shaun Rennie this production will certainly not disappoint. 
As soon as the stage was revealed with incredible structures that created a home for the inter-changing scenes, including a powerful steel cross expanding across the centre of the stage that was used as another level platform stage, creating some very dynamic entrance and exits points during the performance.
Australian Production Manager, L’Argent Wilson along with Set and Costume Designer, Tom Scutt have delivered a superb visual sensation with the earthy tones and cleverly executed sets and props that double up as mic stands on numerous occasions. Truly another example of the superb and well thought out interactions within the show, that literally keeps building and delivering right before your eyes.
It was so cleverly designed implementing a blend of old meets new with it’s structure enhancing the ‘rock themed’ style of this production.
Now the talent is next level and the appreciation of the vocal ability will leave you with goose pimples and truly inspired.
Cast standouts is really everybody involved as it’s obvious this cast truly mould an big part of this incredible production.
Jesus played by Michael Paynter is truly extraordinary, his vocals are next level along with the embodiment of such a powerful role. Equally amazing is the execution of Judas played by Javon King. The commitment and delivery leaves you on the edge of your seat.
Mary is full of power and compassion played by Mahalia Barnes along with the demure and engaging role of Pilate played by Peter Murphy who’s vocals and presence are truly outstanding.
A portrayal of gothic like Gods are powerful and intimidating by Elliot Baker who plays Caiaphas along with John O’Hara, playing Annas. There’s a definite love hate relationship of such energetics, as we are emerged by their hypnotic vocal tones and simple yet very demanding movements and energetics from the moment they make their entrance.
We are treated to a humorous and quirky version of swing style mixed with broadway in the fantastic performance by Reuben Kaye who plays Herod.
It’s truly such a privilege to witness all of these individual talents come together in such a powerful performance. You will certainly be blown away!
I was in absolute awe watching the dancers weave in and out of this magically designed set throughout the show. The Choreography by Drew McOnie, along with Associate Choreographers, Ashley Andrews and Christopher Tendai and Resident Choreographer and swing Bree Tipoki was memorising.
Again, with a clever mix of contemporary new age genre, blending with a street feel vibe of simple yet impactive movements that truly expresses powerful emotions of movement. It certainly showcases the performers athleticism and influential, energetic feel.
The music is astounding and absolutely gets into your soul. With Musical Direction from Laura Tipoki and Musical Supervisor, Tom Deering and Associate Music Supervisor, Michael Riley. You will be left emotionally affected and hauntingly impacted with the amazing talent behind this production and the whole team that make it truly amazing including Original Sound Designer, Nick Lister and Australian Sound Designer, Michael Waters.
It truly is music to the ears in all its divinity!
Associate Lighting Designer, Gavin Swift and Lighting Designer, Lee Curran have created the most beautiful moments during this show, where you’ll be left impressed and inspired with some truly stunning moments!
This is one of those shows you deserve to witness in person.
If you haven’t got your tickets yet I urge you to act quickly so as to not be disappointed.
Truly a sensation that needs your attention and privilege to be part of.
The audience was in full appreciation right from the start with tremendous applause and at one stage pausing the show after a truly exquisite performance delivered by Paynter. A standing ovation erupted on closing and the buzz continued, as the appreciative audience clearly touched, moved slowly out to the foyer.
Definitely don’t miss this magic!
Jesus Christ Superstar is exactly that!
Congratulations on a brilliant opening night.
