4/5 Stars

The Music Theatre Society‘s presentation of Jesus Christ Superstar was an astoundingly accomplished and impressive performance, easily destroying any false preconceptions about student productions, and showcasing remarkable talent and vision all across the board, from the acting and music, to the dancing and visual effects. All blended together with fluency and notable skill, creating a performance that was an utter joy to watch.

Jesus Christ Superstar, written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, and first performed in 1971, is a unique take on Jesus’s last days set in the modern-day, chronicling the final week of his life. The plot focuses predominantly on Judas’ relationship with Jesus, and his decision to betray him.

The show began with a spellbinding bang, opening to a brilliantly-choreographed and deliciously-menacing dance scene by masked performers, which immediately gripped the audience and set the tone for the rest of the show. The stellar band were instantly noticeable, tight and bombastic from beginning to end, fluidly and confidently steering the performance through the musical’s infectious score, which incorporates irresistible funk and rock influences.

Excellent, creative choreography was present throughout, and the stage was skilfully manipulated to make ample use of tiered platforms, meaning that the imaginative staging never seemed static or monotonous.

Laurence Schuman truly came into his own as the tortured, jealous Judas, and performed with fantastic confidence and conviction, while also demonstrating a powerful vocal talent. Other notable performers were Zoe Cave (Mary Magdalene), who’s singing and acting were first-class, and Joe Gaus, Richard Priestley, and the rest of the priests, whose portrayal of the malicious group was scorching and transfixing. The chorus must also be strongly praised, showcasing brilliant dancing and singing, and exercising unrelenting energy and enthusiasm, while the Backstage Society’s dazzling lighting was the icing on the cake.

Frances Black