By Claire DeMarco
“Jesus Christ Superstar” is a 2000 plus year old story based on Christ’s life during his final earthly days. It’s a Biblical history with a bit of a twist! Jesus (Brecken Newton Farrell) is the main character, but Judas (Treasure Treasure) and Mary Magdalene (Kamilah Lay) are prominent co-stars in this rock opera (performed without dialogue).
Based loosely on the Gospel and the last days of Jesus, this slightly revised history debuted in 1971 with lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Nods to costumes and various modern slang reinforce that time frame.
This re-imagining of the Gospel concentrates specifically on Judas and his relationship with Jesus, his concerns, his frustrations and fears.
Mary loves Jesus, is his greatest support but there are subtle suggestions that something more possibly exists (from her perspective).
Judas is concerned that Jesus’s popularity might cause a problem with the Romans who control the country. He is always advising, arguing and lamenting that Jesus is straying from the intent of their mission and what he is doing will only aggravate the Romans.
Judas’s small fractures in his relationship with Jesus finds him reaching out to Caiaphas the Jewish High Priest (Paul Lutty III). Caiaphas and his fellow priests also find Jesus a threat. Judas’ betrayal begins.
Jesus’s supposed crimes come before the Roman governor Pontius Pilate (Paul Binotto) and we all know how this story ends.
Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar is visually electric and vocally outstanding!
What a talented group of actors who can sing, dance and play musical instruments. Kudos to the entire cast!
Hold on to your seats! The music might just propel you right out of them! If not during the show, then definitely when the highly charged jam finishes off the evening after curtain call.
Treasure Treasure as Judas and Brecken Newton Farrell as Jesus.
As Christ, Farrell is multi-dimensional. He succeeds as the loving Savior, the angry man who kicks the vendors out of the temple, the doubting Son facing a known ending. His performance covers a wide range of emotions. “Poor Jerusalem” and “Gethsemane” highlight his singing skills.
Treasure is a treasure – outstanding as Judas with movements graceful, yet strong. Tense emotion is expressed through Treasure’s strong facial expressions and powerful voice. “Heaven on Their Minds” and “Damned for All Time/Blood Money” are examples of vocal excellence.
“I Don’t Know How to Love Him” is one of the most popular songs of “Jesus Christ Superstar” and Lay’s delivery is excellent. Her interpretation of Mary conveys both strength and gentleness. She is also a gifted violinist.
Lutty’s voice is deep, strong and powerful!
With a strong beautiful voice, Justus Wheatley carries the song “Simon Zealotes” to a new high.
Making a brief but memorable appearance as King Herod in a Liberace-like costume, Taylor Isaac Gray provides comedy relief as the silly, singing and piano playing ruler. His rendition of “King Herod’s Song” hits the mark.
“Jesus Christ Superstar” lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Lighting Designer Forrest Trimble and Scenic Designer Todd Nonn compliment one another’s work as the set and lighting work seamlessly together. An impressive two story-high lighted cross showcases their work.
Excellent orchestration under Music Director Dr. Francesca Tortorello.
Impressive direction and choreography by Danny Herman, Rocker Verastique and Lucas Fedele.
-CED
“Jesus Christ Superstar” is a production of Pittsburgh Musical Theater. It runs from April 3rd – April 13th at the Byham Theater, 101 6th Street, Pittsburgh, PA
For more information, click here.
